SELECTING THE RIGHT SCHOOL
When selecting a driving school, make sure the instructor is industry accredited. The instructor should always display a photo identification card on their car’s dashboard, available for your viewing. Second, make sure both the school and the instructor are available when you need them. If you need night classes or weekend instruction, ask if the instructor offers these services. Third, when taking driving lessons, find out how you get to them. Fourth, find out if the vehicles and the instructors are available to attend the license test. Finally, fees vary in many areas, and differ as to the level of services provided. Before selecting a school, make sure the fees charged are appropriate to the level of service you expect.
WHAT TYPES OF TRAINING ARE AVAILABLE?
Driving schools offer varied types of training for drivers, including classes for teenagers, adults, senior citizens, and for retraining. Programs are also available for drivers who have been convicted of drink driving. If you have never had a driver’s license before and you are 16 or over, you can apply for a learner’s permit, which allows you to drive a car in the company of a fully licensed person. Driving schools will only teach you how to drive once you have a learner’s permit. The cost involved is relative to your local government.
A driving test may consist of three parts: a written test, a practical test with a examiner, and a computerized hazard perception test. It is recommended that you always have some professional training with a qualified instructor before attempting a driving test.
There are also specialized schools for truck driving and motorcycle driving. Ask your selected driving school which programs are available through them.
CAN I LOWER MY INSURANCE RATES?
Enrolling in a defensive driving course is helpful for drivers of all ages and may offer some insurance advantages. Such ‘on-road’ courses will teach you how to drive defensively in the city, on the freeway and in the country. Many insurance companies provide a discount on rates upon proof of successful completion of such a course; ask your insurance agent if your policy provides for this discount. Often special conditions apply depending, for example, on your age, your rating, and the particular policy you currently hold. All car owners should own car insurance. Avoid court and personal costs by insuring your vehicle.
A FEW QUICK SAFE DRIVING TIPS
Here are a few safe driving tips: Never follow another car too closely. Leave distance between your car and the car in front of you in case you need to break urgently. Avoid being boxed in by other cars. For example, if you are on the freeway and find yourself boxed in, slow down and create more distance between your vehicle and the one that you are following to allow for braking. You need freedom on the road to drive safely. Another good rule is to keep your eyes moving. Avoid fixating on one point down the road. Look in your mirrors. Look ahead and behind, and on both sides of your car. Whenever you approach an intersection, do not take the lights for granted. Running a yellow light can be dangerous. Whenever it rains, drive at a reduced speed, and double the following distance to avoid compounded problems, like hydroplaning on wet asphalt when you hit the brakes. Always be a courteous driver.