More helpful hints and tips for after you have passed your Driving Test in Newcastle.
5 Tips for Safe Summer Driving
According to recent news reports, Britain is set to roast in a three-month heat wave that could well be the hottest summer ever (driving lessons newcastle upon tyne do suggest taking this news with a large pinch of salt though).
For all you drivers that have recently passed, or are approaching, your driving test at our driving school in Newcastle upon Tyne great weather will mean a first ever road trip to the beach or some other place where it’s possible to lap up the sun.
While heading out in the car during the summer months is inherently better than driving during the dull, dark days of winter, the high temperatures and busy seaside routes are not without dangers to both car and driver. To help make sure you stay safe in a heat wave, here are five essential tips.
1. Check Your Tyres
High temperatures can be very damaging to tyres and it is important that you don’t drive with tread below the legal limit. Heat on the roads will only add to existing rubber damage, so make sure that you check the integrity of your tyres before setting off on a journey. Also, check that tyres are properly inflated – under-inflation increases friction and intensifies heat, resulting in increased damage and potential blowouts.
2. Beware of the Glare
Sun glare, particularly at dusk and dawn, presents a significant danger to drivers and results in a large number of accidents every year. To ensure you are unaffected, make sure that you clean your windscreen (inside and out) to improve vision and remove smears. New wiper blades will help greatly in doing this.
A clean, unscratched pair of sunglasses will also prove very useful.
3. Keep Fresh
The sun beaming down on a hot car will make you tired much quicker and fatigue can be a killer. Stay fresh by taking a 15-20 minute break every two hours on long journeys. Regular short stops are better than one long stop for combatting tiredness, so make sure that you factor them in to your time schedule. During your breaks, drink two cups of coffee or take a 15-minute nap.
If you feel tired while driving, open a window and turn the radio up until you reach the nearest services.
4. Keep the Car Cool
On long journey’s, cooling systems may become problematic. You should always check that your coolant reservoir is topped up as well as checking coolant hoses to make sure there are no signs of wetness or white staining – these could indicate a leak. Perform a check on the fan by idling the car for 5 minutes at normal temperature – if the fan does not kick in then there may be a problem.
5. Share the Road
The warm weather brings different types of road users and bicycles, motorcycles, and pedestrians become more common. Each of these road users is vulnerable and does not have the protection of a car in the event of a collision.
Always expect to see cyclists and pedestrians, this way you will be more likely to detect them. Remember, at nighttime pedestrians may be hard to see so you must always keep a lookout. Be especially attentive in built-up areas and around schools. For further information or advice contact Experience Driving School.
