Whether it’s a short trip to the shops, a commute to work, or a spontaneous road trip, the independence of driving is a wonderful feeling. However, along with this freedom comes the responsibility to ensure that you stay safe on the road.

At Surrey Driving Force, we know that driving solo for the first time can feel both exciting and daunting. That’s why we’ve put together this guide, offering practical advice on how to stay safe while driving independently, so you can enjoy the freedom of the open road with confidence.

1. Take It One Step at a Time

When you first start driving solo, it’s important not to rush into situations that may feel overwhelming. As with any new experience, it’s best to take things one step at a time to build your confidence gradually.

  • Begin with familiar routes: Start by driving on roads you know well. This will help you focus on the act of driving itself, without the added pressure of navigating unfamiliar routes. Trips to local shops, a friend’s house, or your regular commute are ideal for building confidence.
  • Avoid peak traffic times: At first, try to avoid driving during rush hour or in areas where traffic can be heavy, such as town centres or busy motorways. As your confidence grows, you can start tackling busier roads and more challenging driving situations.
  • Keep journeys short initially: Don’t feel like you have to take on long journeys right away. Begin with shorter trips and gradually increase the length of your drives as you feel more comfortable driving alone.

By starting with smaller, manageable journeys, you’ll build your confidence on the road and feel more at ease driving solo.

2. Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions

One of the key differences between driving with an instructor and driving solo is that you no longer have someone beside you offering guidance or keeping an eye on things. That’s why it’s crucial to stay focused and minimise distractions while driving.

  • Put your phone away: It’s illegal to use your phone while driving in the UK unless it’s hands-free, and even then, it’s best to avoid making calls unless absolutely necessary. Put your phone on silent or use “Do Not Disturb” mode to minimise distractions.
  • Keep the music at a reasonable volume: While it’s tempting to turn up the volume and enjoy your favourite tunes, loud music can be distracting. Keep the volume low enough so that you can still hear what’s happening around you, such as car horns or emergency vehicle sirens.
  • Avoid eating or drinking while driving: Eating or drinking behind the wheel can distract you from the road and reduce your ability to react to sudden changes. It’s best to pull over somewhere safe if you need to have a snack or drink.

By staying focused and reducing distractions, you’ll be more aware of your surroundings and better able to make safe driving decisions.

3. Plan Your Journeys in Advance

One of the benefits of driving solo is the freedom to explore new places. However, when driving to unfamiliar destinations, it’s a good idea to plan your journey in advance. This will not only help you avoid getting lost but also reduce stress during your trip.

  • Use a sat-nav or map: If you’re travelling to a new location, use a sat-nav or navigation app to plan your route. Enter your destination before you set off, so you’re not distracted by trying to input information while driving. Alternatively, familiarise yourself with the route beforehand by checking a map.
  • Check traffic reports: Before heading out, check for any roadworks, closures, or traffic delays along your route. This will help you avoid unnecessary hold-ups and allow you to plan alternative routes if necessary.
  • Keep an emergency kit in your car: It’s always a good idea to have an emergency kit in your car, especially if you’re going on a longer journey. This could include essentials such as a first-aid kit, a torch, a high-vis jacket, and breakdown cover details.

By planning ahead, you’ll feel more prepared and confident when driving to new places, helping you stay safe and enjoy the journey.

4. Stay Calm in Challenging Situations

While driving solo can be enjoyable, there will inevitably be moments when things don’t go as planned. Whether it’s heavy traffic, poor weather, or an unexpected detour, staying calm in these situations is key to making safe decisions on the road.

  • Take deep breaths and stay composed: If you find yourself in a stressful situation, such as a traffic jam or adverse weather conditions, take a few deep breaths to calm yourself. Remember that it’s better to take things slowly and stay in control than to rush and make mistakes.
  • Pull over if needed: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure of how to handle a particular situation, don’t hesitate to pull over somewhere safe. This could be the hard shoulder on a motorway or a lay-by on a quieter road. Taking a short break can help you regroup and continue your journey more confidently.
  • Adjust your driving for the conditions: If you encounter challenging driving conditions, such as rain, fog, or ice, slow down and adapt your driving style. Increase your stopping distance, use your headlights or fog lights if necessary, and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns.

By staying calm and focused in challenging situations, you’ll be better equipped to handle whatever the road throws your way.

5. Keep Your Car in Good Condition

A reliable car is essential for staying safe on the road, especially when driving solo. Regular maintenance and checks will help ensure your vehicle remains roadworthy and reduce the risk of breakdowns.

  • Check your tyres: Your tyres are your car’s only contact with the road, so it’s crucial to keep them in good condition. Ensure they’re properly inflated and have enough tread. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm, but it’s advisable to replace your tyres when the tread depth drops to 3mm for better grip and safety.
  • Top up fluids regularly: Make sure your car has enough oil, coolant, and windscreen washer fluid. Regularly check these levels, especially before long journeys, to keep your car running smoothly.
  • Service your car: Keep up with your car’s servicing schedule to ensure it’s in good working order. Servicing can help identify any potential issues before they become serious problems, giving you peace of mind when driving solo.

By taking care of your car, you’ll reduce the risk of breakdowns and keep yourself safer on the road.

6. Drive Defensively and Stay Aware of Other Road Users

Defensive driving is all about staying alert, anticipating potential hazards, and being prepared to respond to other road users’ actions. As a solo driver, you’ll need to be extra vigilant and aware of your surroundings to stay safe.

  • Maintain a safe following distance: Always keep a safe distance between your car and the vehicle in front, particularly in wet or icy conditions when stopping distances are increased. The “two-second rule” is a good guide in dry conditions, but increase this in adverse weather.
  • Be aware of cyclists and pedestrians: Keep an eye out for vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians, especially at junctions, crossings, and in urban areas. Give cyclists plenty of space when overtaking, and be prepared to stop for pedestrians.
  • Anticipate the actions of others: Watch for signs that other drivers may be about to change lanes, turn, or slow down. By anticipating their movements, you’ll be better prepared to react and avoid accidents.

Staying alert and practising defensive driving will help you avoid potential hazards and keep yourself and others safe on the road.

7. Take Regular Breaks on Long Journeys

When driving solo, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the open road and push through long journeys without stopping. However, fatigue can seriously affect your concentration and reaction times, so it’s important to take regular breaks.

  • Stop every two hours: On longer trips, take a break every two hours or so to rest and stretch your legs. Even a short stop can help you feel refreshed and more focused when you get back behind the wheel.
  • Stay hydrated and energised: Bring along water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energised during your journey. Avoid heavy meals before driving, as they can make you feel sluggish.
  • Listen to your body: If you’re feeling tired, don’t ignore it. Fatigue can impair your ability to drive safely, so it’s always better to pull over and take a short nap or break than to risk driving while tired.

By taking regular breaks, you’ll stay alert and energised, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable journey.

8. Embrace the Joy of Driving Solo

Driving solo offers a unique sense of freedom and independence that’s hard to match. Whether you’re taking a scenic drive, running errands, or heading off on a road trip, driving solo allows you to travel at your own pace, listen to your favourite music, and enjoy the journey.

  • Plan a road trip: Why not take advantage of your newfound independence and plan a road trip? The UK is full of scenic routes, from the winding roads of the Lake District to the coastal drives along the Jurassic Coast. A road trip is a great way to explore new places and gain confidence on a variety of roads.
  • Make driving a stress-free experience: Enjoy the calm and peacefulness of driving solo. Without passengers, you can focus fully on the road and your surroundings, turning driving into a relaxing and rewarding experience.

Driving solo can be an enjoyable and liberating experience, and with the right mindset, you can make the most of your time on the road.

In Conclusion

Driving solo is an exciting step towards independence, and by staying focused, driving safely, and planning ahead, you can fully embrace the freedom it brings. At Surrey Driving Force, we’re here to support you throughout your driving journey, whether you’re looking for additional lessons, motorway practice, or tips for staying safe on the road.

Enjoy your newfound independence, stay safe, and make the most of every journey!