Driver training and licensing are meant to ensure that all new Florida drivers have the basic skills needed to safely operate a car. Despite this, young drivers and new drivers do have a higher accident rate. Partly, this is because even the most advanced Florida driving schools and training classes simply cannot cover all the possible elements of driving safely. Most schools do not carefully instruct drivers about driving in bad weather, night driving, and other necessary driving skills. There is simply no time. As well, even the best Florida driving instruction classes do not make up for practice, which is really what is needed to improve your driving skills.

If you are a new driver – whether you are 16 or 60 – you can help prevent Florida car accidents by exercising some additional precautions for the first 3-6 months after you get your license:

1) Get additional training. The driver’s training you take to obtain your license is usually very rudimentary. Additional training with a qualified instructor can help you hone your skills and can help you stay more confident behind the wheel. Defensive training, additional in-car sessions, and even racing schools are excellent investments that can help you avoid accidents and injuries.

2) Drive with an experienced driver. Driving occasionally with a good driver can help ensure that you don’t develop bad habits early on. A good driver can notice and help gently correct and problems you are having.

3) Avoid night driving until your driving skills improve. Night driving means lower visibility as well as more intoxicated drivers on the road. Since your driving skills and defensive driving skills are only developing, it is too easy to get involved in a Florida drunk driving accident because of someone else’s negligence. If you need to drive at night, at least get some in-car night driving training with a qualified instructor first.

4) Do not drink and drive. Even small amounts of alcohol (amounts that keep you below the legal limit) can make you drowsy and can affect your driving skills. Do not add to Florida drunk driving statistics – do not have any alcohol while driving. As well, take another look at the over-the-counter medications and prescription medications you take. Do any of them make you drowsy? If so, talk to your doctor about getting different medication, since these substances can also increase your risk for accidents.

5) Do not take on passengers until you improve your skills. Passengers are a distraction, even when they don’t mean to distract. The more passengers you take on, the greater your risk of being in a Florida pedestrian accident or traffic accident. Wait until you hone your skills first.