Things you never learned from your instructor driving
It is easy to assume that driving after passing your test means you are done learning. But, in reality, drivers learn every single day.
Some things that your instructor doesn’t teach are how to be a courteous driver and how to avoid accidentally breaking the law.
For your convenience, we have compiled essential facts that every motorist should know.
- How to deal when “queue-jumpers”, as lanes merge, are encountered
Some motorists such as the users of the roundabout in Wales have been frustrated and confused by the sight that drivers pass them on the right-hand side of the road only to zip-merge at their last moment.
The law says that these “queue-jumpers”, or zip-jumpers, are in the wrong. However, zip-merging is more common than you might imagine relieving congestion at traffic pinch points.
Motorists should merge in two lanes. They are expected to use both lanes through the point of the lane closure. After that, they are supposed to take it in turns to merge into one lane.
Drivers who merge in advance of the law are creating further problems by merging as soon as they can.
- How to clear ice off your windscreen
If you are running late and must de-ice the windscreen before setting out, it is possible to try to save your time by clearing only enough glass to see clearly. This practice is known as “potholing”.
Do not panic, as you could be subject to a PS60 fine if your vehicle has been deemed “dangerous.” You may also face three penalty points.
The ice on the driver’s side windscreen cannot be removed by itself. It must be removed from the entire area.
The law requires that the driver has a clear view of the road and traffic ahead. This is why it is worthwhile taking extra time to clean your windscreen, and also your mirrors.
- Paying with your mobile phone at a drive-through
Although it isn’t the best choice, driving to the nearest drive-thru for a quick bite to eat is a great option. However, you must not end up with a large fine.
Technically, if you pay with your Smartphone at a till you will be breaking the law regarding using hand-held devices while driving. This could result in you being fined up to PS200 and six penalty points.
Your phone should never be held near the engine’s running. This holds even when the engine shuts down automatically to save fuel.
- How to properly use the horn
The streets of some countries are alive with the constant sound of horn honking. In the UK however, we are more cautious about how loudly we toot. It should only be used for alerting other road users to your presence and any other road dangers.
Overly aggressive use can be considered hostile. It could also cause other road users to become agitated.
- How to use full-beam headlights
Full beam headlights can prove to be very useful if you are driving in rural areas with limited street lighting at night. However, you must use them properly to remain safe on the roads.
So that they don’t get distracted, switch to dipped beams when you pass another vehicle. Your full-beam headlights can blind them and cause them to lose control.
- Modifying the mode for your rear-view reflector
Have you ever wondered about the switch that is located at the bottom of your rear-view mirror? This handy feature switches your rear-view camera from “day mode”, to “night mode”.
Moving from daytime tonight can help you cope with the challenges of driving at night. Your reflection will get darker, so it is easier to deal with the glare coming from the headlights behind.
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