New drivers—particularly teenagers—tend to be involved in more vehicle collisions than any other age group. This is largely due to their inexperience behind the wheel. To help you avoid trouble on the road, Bob Shropshire Sons Driving School in Cincinnati, OH, offers some tips below for driving safely. 

How to Drive Safely

1. Drive Defensively

Defensive driving means you are constantly aware of other motorists and are prepared for them to do something unpredictable, such as pull out in front of you or suddenly slam on the brakes. Be cautious and leave two to four seconds of space between you and the driver in front of you—and always expect the unexpected.

2. Don't Drive While Distracted

Distracted driving includes cell phone use, talking to people in the back seat, adjusting the radio, and looking at maps. Disaster can strike quickly when you are moving at highway speeds, so don't take your eyes off the road for more than a second or two.

3. Don't Drive While You're Tired

There is a reason state highways have rumble strips on the shoulder: to warn weary drivers that they're veering off the road. If you feel tired, ask an alert passenger to drive or pull over and nap until you are clear headed.

4. Secure Cargo

Bending over to retrieve items that have fallen off the seat can cause an accident. This is dangerous since not only are your eyes off the road but you have a tendency to pull the wheel to one side. To avoid this, secure any objects that might spill or slide off the seat. In addition to cargo, secure yourself and passengers by always wearing—and insisting others wear—a seatbelt.

Driving safely requires practice, concentration, and good fundamental training. While each driver is responsible for the first two, Bob Shropshire Sons Driving School can provide the third. To prepare for the driving test and earn yourself a drivers license, contact Cincinnati, OH's most trusted instructors. They offer low rates and affordable payment plans and will customize lessons to your individual needs. Visit their website to contact them online, or call (513) 721-3915 to schedule a consultation and learn more about driving safely.