Beginner’s Guide to Learning to Drive a Car

In the Philippines, cars are frequently seen as a preferred form of both individual and business transportation, particularly for last-mile connections. They provide a sense of independence and are enjoyable to drive. 

Yet you must be able to drive a car to fully take advantage of these advantages. Take heart! If you adhere to a few simple rules, it is simple. Here are some hints and pointers to assist you in mastering the fundamentals of driving an automobile.

Tips for driving a car for the first time

Before you start driving, consider the following advice:

• Adjust to your comfort: When you start the car, make sure the seat is in the ideal position for a good vision. The mirrors in the back are the same. This can aid in making you feel at ease and relaxed, particularly during a challenging maneuver.
• Avoid overanalyzing the matter because you must multitask while driving. Due to the numerous controls, gearshifts, and clutch usage, driving may be overwhelming. Even though these chores might appear difficult, it is crucial to remain focused and in the present moment.
• Hire a dependable and experienced driver to drive with you so you can concentrate on learning how to operate a vehicle. You may learn to drive a car without being concerned about safety by riding along with an experienced driver. To make the experience less frightening, you can get advice from an experienced adult or expert.
• Be focused; using a phone at this time is not appropriate. Distracted driving is never a smart idea. To prevent unnecessary distractions, you should also roll up the windows, switch off the radio or music, or turn it down.
• Keep to well-traveled routes: Because you are familiar with the route, you will feel more at ease while driving. When you begin driving on new or unfamiliar roads, first circle a familiar region.
• Avoid using highways: Although you will need to learn to drive on this sort of road, it is essential that you master all aspects of driving a car before using a highway. Before putting yourself in a difficult scenario, wait until you feel comfortable enough to drive a car.

How to drive a car: A step-by-step guide?

As a novice driver, operating a car can appear intimidating. Yet, you may learn to drive safely and confidently with the right instruction. This is a step-by-step instruction manual for learning to drive a car.

Step 1: 

Before you start driving, familiarize yourself with the vehicle. Sit in the driver’s seat and make any necessary adjustments to the seat, steering wheel, and mirrors. Get familiar with the pedals and controls, such as the clutch, brake, and accelerator (if manual).

Step 2:

Especially while learning to drive an automobile, safety is paramount. Be careful to belt up and that the passengers are doing the same.

Step 3:

Start the vehicle. To start the engine, either insert the key or press the start button. Make sure your feet are firmly planted on the brake and the gear is in neutral.

Step 4: 

Prepare to begin moving. Make sure the hand brake is disengaged and that first gear or the automatic gearbox’s “drive” mode is selected before you start driving (manual gearbox).

Step 5: 

Accelerate and carefully let off the clutch. The car should go ahead as a result.

Step 6: 

Use the clutch and the steering to travel slowly. The steering wheel can be used to find your path. Use your right foot to press the brake pedal and your left foot to press the clutch pedal when you need to stop or slow down.

Step 7: 

When making a left or right turn, use your turn indicators. This makes it easier for other drivers to find their way.

Step 8:

If you have a manual transmission, you must change gears as you accelerate. Use your left foot to depress the clutch pedal and your left hand to shift up by moving the gear stick to the next gear. Use the same method but in reverse order to shift down.

Step 9: 

Be sure you follow all traffic laws while driving, including stop signs, speed limits, and traffic signals.

Step 10: 

When you arrive at your destination, locate a parking space, slowly pull up to it, apply the hand brake, or put your car in “park” mode (automatic gearbox). Remove the key, shut off the engine, and get out of the car.

Tips for driving a manual car

Here are some crucial pointers to get you started if you want to learn how to operate a manual gearbox vehicle. There are three pedals on manual cars: the clutch, brake, and accelerator. How to use them is shown below.

• To raise the engine revs and accelerate the vehicle, depress the accelerator.
• The vehicle will slow down if you use the brake pedal.
• Two metal plates make up the clutch, which connects the engine and the wheels’ propulsion. Keep in mind that the primary distinction between manual and automatic vehicles is the clutch pedal. By depressing the clutch pedal, you release the engine’s connection to the wheels.

Tips for driving an automatic car

Here are some pointers for operating a car with an automatic transmission. You can choose between Drive, Park, Reverse, and Neutral in the majority of automatic vehicles. How to use them is shown below.

• When stopping and exiting the car, it is advisable to use the Park mode. In this mode, the gearbox is locked and can’t move relative to the vehicle. The electronic or manual hand brake must still be used.
• When you wish to move the car backward, it would be beneficial if you choose the Reverse mode.
• You can move the car forward by selecting the Drive mode.
• The Neutral mode functions exactly like an out-of-gear manual gearbox.

Consider this safety advice before taking your first automobile ride

Aside from being familiar with first-time driver recommendations, safety considerations should also be understood. Here are a few pieces of advice.

• To change lanes or make a turn, always utilize your turn signals before doing so.
• To prevent accidents, follow driving laws.
• In the Philippines, it is lawful to use a seatbelt, and it is also in your best interest.
• It’s crucial to avoid operating a vehicle while intoxicated by alcohol or any drug that affects cognition.
• Honk sparingly and only when absolutely necessary.
• Give way to smaller cars and pedestrians.
• Maintain a safe following distance from the car in front of you.
• Before you start driving, be sure your automobile is insured. Choose a comprehensive auto insurance policy for a variety of advantages.

Please read: EFFECTS OF DRIVING IN THE PHILIPPINES WITHOUT CAR INSURANCE

Conclusion

These fundamental car-driving techniques guarantee that you are taking all necessary safety measures before hitting the road. Keep in mind that practice makes perfect, so go slowly and steadily, and you’ll soon be able to drive without feeling nervous.