Checklist for newbie drivers bound for their solo rides

Getting behind the wheel for the first time is both scary and exhilarating. Driving around with adult supervision is different from going on your first solo ride. There’s no mom or dad advising you to shift gears, switch lanes, overtake, speed up or slow down. Though you’re totally in command, there’s still a feeling of uncertainty when you’re on the road, and that’s normal. Driving is a skill that requires experience and practice.

 

Arm yourself with driving smarts and check out these tips for first-time drivers.

 

Learn how to change a tire

 

Though there are a lot of gas stations in the Metro, changing a tire is something you have to know how to do, whether you are a guy or a girl. Ask a friend or a parent to teach you how, and make sure that you always have a spare tire that is in good condition. Make sure, too, that you have the tools necessary to change a tire.

 

Have a trusty mechanic/car towing service on speed dial

 

Just like driving is a skill that improves as you gain experience, knowing how your car works and diagnosing noises and shudders requires years of practice, too. This is why it’s important to have a trusty mechanic/auto repair shop/towing service on speed dial for times when your car (literally) needs a pick-me-up. Don’t feel helpless if your car breaks down in the middle of traffic or, worse, in the middle of nowhere. Should your car break down in a shady part of the Metro, keep your car doors locked and step out only when the reinforcements you’ve called in have arrived.

 

Know your traffic violations

 

Knowing is half the battle. And in the case of traffic violations, that adage is so true. Local and national government transportation agencies, like the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, have a complete list of traffic violations on their websites, so be sure to check it out.

 

Learn how to park in tight spaces

 

One challenge you’ll be encountering frequently if you’ll be driving to school is the lack of parking slots. If we could drive monster trucks and stack them on top of each other, we would totally do it. If you want to snag prime parking space, make sure to come to school early. Because parking is a premium in most universities, many parking lots can be tight and narrow. Practice how to parallel park and park rear-end first so you’ll have an easier time exiting the parking lot.

 

Know what to do in case of fender benders

 

Fender benders are always stressful, especially if it’s your first time. So remain calm, avoid getting baited into an argument, and take photos of the accident. Have your insurance details handy and call your parents immediately. Because your car is insured, auto accidents are covered; therefore, you are not obligated to fork over any cash should you encounter a motorist who demands cash for the damage. Wait for a traffic investigator to help settle the issue as well.

 

Know where your vehicle’s documents are

 

Your glove compartment is not just storage space for tissues, cologne and your sunglasses. Make sure that you always have several photocopies of your car’s current registration receipt as well as the certificate of registration. It’s also essential to know where your insurance papers are in the event of a vehicular accident.

 

Don’t text and drive

 

It only takes a split second of inattention on the road for something bad to happen. Do not, under any circumstances, text or operate your smartphone while driving. If you must send a message or use Google Maps or Waze to guide you to a particular destination, pull over to the side of the road and finish your business before driving again.

 

Don’t forget your driver’s license!

 

We don’t have to tell you how important it is to have your driver’s license with you at all times. Keep it safely stored in your wallet or look for a phone case that has slots for IDs—you’re less likely to forget your phone, which means you’ll have your license with you all the time, too.