Ever wondered if you are a good driver?
The question may sound funny because everyone who drives a car believes they are very good at driving.
However, knowing the clutch from the brake pedal or knowing how to change gears doesn’t necessarily make you a good driver. It is one thing to be able to move a car around, but it is a different thing to drive the car safely and confidently.
Driving is a skill that demands constant improvement and has more to do with character and personality than one would think. Good driving is a direct product of constant practice, adherence to traffic rules and consistent respect for other road users.
But then, what makes one a good driver? Here are ten qualities you should know:
1. Patience: One of the causes of road accidents is the impatience of some drivers. Good drivers don’t react quickly to things while driving. They’re always patient whenever they are wielding the steering. They make good decisions to avoid accidents and also remain calm when other drivers might be annoying them.
2. Safety First: A good driver knows his/her limits as a driver and as a human being, and operates within those limits. They are always safety-conscious by following all safety practices like wearing a seat belt, following traffic rules, not using a phone while driving etc.
3. Skilled and knowledgeable: Good drives are skilled and don’t lose concentration when on the wheels. They know how to skillfully step on the breaks, manoeuvre the car and use other controls. They understand not just their car but the road as well. A good driver combines skills and adequate knowledge of the rules of the road. Knowledge of different routes is an added advantage.
4. Defensive and focused: A good driver also drives defensively and is focused. They drive with precaution and do not allow anything to distract them. They are always alert to potential dangers on the road.
5. A Sense of Responsibility: A good driver has a sense of responsibility and courtesy to other road users. This makes him/her always drive carefully. They are always self-disciplined and take complete responsibility for their actions while driving. A good driver is also aware of his/her bad habits, and constantly strives to overcome them. This doesn’t only help them become a better driver, but also a safer driver.
6. Mechanical ability: As a driver, driving well isn’t enough, you should be able to understand the functions of some basic parts of the vehicle and how to work on them when the need arises. For instance, knowledgeable drivers are usually able to change the tyres of the car during emergencies. Also, they must be able to notice when a part of the vehicle needs a change.
7. Great maintenance: A good driver regularly maintains his/her vehicle and makes sure it is well serviced at all times. He/she ensures the car is washed when it’s dirty and does not wait until it is empty of fuel before refuelling the vehicle.
