Originally Posted On: https://brentwooddrivertraining.com/10-skills-you-need-to-master-in-driving-classes/

What’s the first thing you want to do as a 15-year-old in Tennessee? Get your learner’s permit, of course!

Learning to drive is a significant milestone, providing independence and the ability to explore new horizons. It’s also an important rite of passage nowadays for most young people.

However, becoming a proficient driver requires mastering various skills to ensure safety and confidence on the road. Driving classes are designed to teach these essential skills systematically and ensure safe driving on the road.

Here, we explore the top skills you need to master in driving lessons to become a competent and responsible driver.

1. Basic Vehicle Control

A fundamental skill in driving is understanding how to control the vehicle. This includes knowing the function and location of essential controls such as the steering wheel, accelerator, brake, and clutch (in manual cars).

Before you even start thinking about driving, you need to take some time to familiarize yourself with the gear shift, turn signals, windshield wipers, and dashboard indicators.

Starting and Stopping Smoothly

Learning to start and stop the car smoothly is one of the first skills taught in driving classes. This involves gentle use of the accelerator and brake to avoid jerky movements. In manual cars, coordinating the clutch and accelerator is key to preventing stalling.

2. Steering Techniques

Maintaining proper hand position on the steering wheel is vital for control and safety. The “10 and 2” position, or more recently recommended “9 and 3,” provides better control and reduces the risk of injury from airbag deployment.

Turning and Cornering

Effective steering techniques are essential for turning and cornering. Learning to judge the appropriate speed for different types of turns and mastering the hand-over-hand or push-pull steering methods are important skills to ensure smooth and safe maneuvering.

3. Observational Skills

Observational skills are critical for identifying potential hazards. This involves constantly scanning the road ahead, checking mirrors frequently, and being aware of other road users. Developing a habit of checking blind spots before changing lanes or merging is also crucial.

Reading Traffic Signs and Signals

Understanding and obeying traffic signs, signals, and road markings is a fundamental aspect of driving. This includes recognizing speed limits, yield signs, stop signs, and understanding traffic light sequences.

4. Defensive Driving

Defensive driving involves anticipating the actions of other drivers and being prepared for unexpected situations. This means maintaining a safe following distance, being cautious at intersections, and being prepared to react to sudden stops or erratic driving behaviors.

Hazard Perception

Identifying potential hazards and knowing how to respond is a key component of defensive driving. This includes recognizing pedestrians, cyclists, and animals on the road, as well as being aware of road conditions such as wet or icy surfaces.

5. Parallel Parking and Parking Lot Navigation

Parallel parking is a challenging skill that requires practice and precision. Learning to judge distances accurately and maneuver the vehicle into a tight space is essential for urban driving.

Navigating Parking Lots

Driving in parking lots involves understanding how to navigate tight spaces, respecting parking regulations, and being vigilant for pedestrians and other vehicles. Practicing these skills in driving classes builds confidence and competence.

6. Highway and Freeway Driving

Highway driving requires mastering the skills of merging onto the highway and changing lanes safely. This involves judging the speed and distance of other vehicles, signaling intentions clearly, and accelerating smoothly to match the flow of traffic.

Maintaining Safe Speed and Distance

Maintaining a consistent speed and safe following distance is crucial for highway driving. Understanding and adhering to speed limits, using cruise control when appropriate, and being aware of faster-moving traffic are important aspects of highway safety.

7. Night and Adverse Weather Driving

Driving at night presents unique challenges due to reduced visibility. Learning to use headlights effectively, understanding when to switch between high and low beams, and being vigilant for pedestrians and animals are important night-driving skills.

Adverse Weather Conditions

Adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, fog, and ice require special driving techniques. This includes reducing speed, increasing following distance, and understanding how to use windshield wipers and defrosters effectively. Practicing these skills in a controlled environment helps build confidence for real-world conditions.

8. Emergency Situations and Maneuvers

Knowing how to handle skids and hydroplaning is crucial for maintaining control during adverse conditions. This involves techniques such as steering into the skid and avoiding sudden braking.

Emergency Stops and Evasive Maneuvers

Emergency stops and evasive maneuvers are critical skills for avoiding collisions. Learning to apply the brakes effectively without locking them (in non-ABS vehicles) and understanding how to swerve safely are important components of emergency response training.

9. Fuel Efficiency and Eco-Driving

Eco-driving involves techniques to improve fuel efficiency and reduce environmental impact. This includes smooth acceleration and braking, maintaining a steady speed, and avoiding excessive idling. Understanding how to drive efficiently can lead to significant cost savings and environmental benefits.

Vehicle Maintenance Awareness

Regular vehicle maintenance is part of eco-driving. Understanding basic maintenance tasks such as checking tire pressure, oil levels, and fluid levels ensures the vehicle operates efficiently and safely.

10. Understanding Legal and Safety Responsibilities

A comprehensive understanding of traffic laws and regulations is essential for safe and lawful driving. This includes knowledge of speed limits, right-of-way rules, and parking regulations.

Safety Precautions

Safety precautions such as wearing seat belts, avoiding distractions (e.g., using mobile phones), and not driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are fundamental responsibilities of all drivers. Driver training emphasizes these aspects to instill a culture of safety.

Driving Classes Improve Driving Skills and Increase Road Safety

Everyone wants to be safe when driving on the roads of Tennessee. That’s why driving classes are so important. They give you the driving skills that ensure you can keep yourself and everyone else on the roads accident-free.

Brentwood Driver Training is a driving school serving Middle Tennessee with over 30 years of trusted service. We offer year-round classes and also driver’s license testing. We also have home video driver training for those who can’t come to our locations.

Gain the skills you want to drive confidently and safely on the roads of Tennessee. Sign up for teen classroom courses today.