Safety of Student Drivers on the Road

At some point in a driver's life, we began to learn how to operate a vehicle. Make it start and drive it slowly for the first time. For many, especially those who learned driving using manual transmission cars, we experienced chugging of the engine when we release the clutch early and then the car simply dies. And of course, the best way to learn how to drive is to actually drive on the road. Of course, it's quite dangerous and risky but you've got to practice a lot to be able to driver better. There are many things that can help your driving experience safer while you're still learning how to drive.

First of all, the best thing to do is to have warning signs on your vehicle saying that you're a student driver. Put up a sign or a poster at the back of your vehicle saying something like "caution: student driver" or something. Turn on your hazard lights and stay on the slow lane. Also, you should have someone with you to guide you like a driving instructor (especially if you're enrolled in a driving school) or a relative who holds a license that allows him or her to teach you (the license or permit may differ in other countries).

Knowing how to operate a vehicle is one thing but navigating through the roads with outside factors such as other cars, pedestrians, road conditions, and more is another. That's one of the reasons why you need to have someone who is experienced in driving to tell you not only how to operate the car but also techniques in handling different situations on the road.

But what about the other drivers on the road? What should we do when we see a student driver? Most of the student drivers are driving slowly but I see lots of drivers pass them and cut them in front. I mean, that's really inconsiderate. Give them room to drive. There are some who even shout or honk at the student driver for driving slowly. Well, duh, they're just trying to drive better and are just starting. You don't impress anyone by showing off or overtaking a student driver.

You can pass them but do it safely. Turn on your signal lights to notify the student driver that you want to pass. The student driver and/or his/her companion should notice it and drive cautiously. Slowly pass them and give them room in front. Don't cut in and make sure there are no other cars on the lane where you will pass through.

One thing we could think of is that we've been there before and the least we could do is to be an example on good driving manners. So let's be considerate. If we see student drivers, show them respect and show them how a responsible and defensive driver should be. And while driving, don't just think of where you are going but think about how to get there as safe as you can not only for you but for everyone else on the road.