Today’s society relies on drivers, but it’s important to remember that driving is a risky activity if not performed properly. In Australia, car crashes annually cause about 1,200 fatalities and 35,000 injuries. The good news is that the Safer Drivers Training can help you become a safer and more confident driver.
To help young people acquire the information and experience they need to operate motor vehicles safely and responsibly, the government funds the Safer Drivers Course. The first module is a three-hour group discussion, and the second is a two-hour in-vehicle coaching lesson. To get the most out of the Safer Drivers Training and boost your driving abilities and self-assurance, consider the following advice.
Take The Course Seriously
The Safer Drivers Course is not a simple checkbox exercise. It’s designed to help you become a safer and more responsible driver, so it’s important to take it seriously. Attend all sessions, participate actively in discussions, and ask questions if you don’t understand anything. Take notes and review them regularly to help reinforce the lessons you’ve learned. Remember that what you learn in the course can help keep you safe on the road, so make the most of the opportunity.
Develop Good Habits
Developing good driving habits is one of the keys to becoming a safe driver. The NSW Safer Drivers Course covers a range of topics, including hazard perception, speed management, and safe following distances. Pay attention to the advice given by the instructors and put it into practice when you’re behind the wheel. Be mindful of your speed, always wear your seatbelt, and avoid distractions like mobile phones or loud music. By developing good habits, you’ll be better equipped to handle any challenges you may face on the road.
Build Your Confidence
Many new drivers lack confidence when driving, especially on busy roads or in adverse weather conditions. The Safer Drivers Course can help you build your confidence by providing you with opportunities to practice your skills in a controlled and supportive environment. The in-vehicle coaching session is particularly helpful in this regard. Your coach will provide guidance and feedback as you drive, helping you identify areas where you need to improve and building your confidence as you go. Upon completion of this training, you will have increased confidence in your driving abilities, which can help you make better decisions on the road.
Learn To Identify Hazards
Hazard perception is the ability to identify potential hazards on the road and take appropriate action to avoid them. This skill is essential for safe driving, but many new drivers lack it. The Safer Drivers Course teaches participants how to identify hazards and respond to them quickly, which can help prevent accidents and save lives. During the course, you’ll learn to scan the road ahead, anticipate potential hazards, and react appropriately. This skill is particularly important when driving in adverse weather conditions or on unfamiliar roads.
Practice Defensive Driving
Learning defensive driving skills is essential for everyone on the road. When driving defensively, you pay attention to your surroundings, try to anticipate possible hazards, and take active measures to prevent accidents. The Safer Drivers Course covers defensive driving techniques, such as maintaining a safe following distance, scanning the road ahead, and keeping an eye out for other road users. Practice these techniques whenever you’re behind the wheel, and they will become second nature.
Conclusion
The Safer Drivers Course is an excellent opportunity for young drivers to improve their driving skills and confidence. By taking the course seriously, developing good habits, building your confidence, learning to identify hazards, practicing defensive driving, and continuing to learn, you can become a safer and more responsible driver. Remember, the skills and knowledge gained from the Safer Drivers Course are not just useful for young drivers starting out but for all drivers who want to improve their driving abilities and stay safe on the road. So, if you have the opportunity to take the course, don’t hesitate. It could be a decision that saves your life or the lives of others on the road.