What Things Should Be Kept in Mind While Driving a Car?

Rajan Chaudhary

Published on: 23-10-2025

What things should be kept in mind while driving a car

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Driving a car is a daily activity for millions of people. But it is also one of the most responsible tasks we do every day. A small mistake on the road can lead to big problems. That is why every driver should know what things to keep in mind while driving a car.

Whether you are a beginner learning to drive or an experienced driver, it is important to follow safety rules and good habits. Let’s go step by step and understand all the important things to keep in mind while driving a car safely and responsibly.

1. Check Your Car Before Starting

Before you even start driving, make sure your car is in good condition. This habit can prevent many problems on the road. Always perform a quick safety check.

Check brakes: Press the brake pedal to see if it feels firm. If it feels soft, get it checked immediately.
Check tyres: Make sure tyres are properly inflated. Low tyre pressure can reduce control. Also, look for any damage or cuts.
Check mirrors: Ensure that side mirrors and the rear-view mirror are clean and properly adjusted.
Check fuel level: Never start a trip without enough fuel.
Check lights and indicators: Test the headlights, tail lights, and turn signals. Good visibility is vital, especially in bad weather.
Clean the windshield: Dust and dirt can block your vision. Use the wipers if needed.

Doing these small checks every day takes only a few minutes but keeps you and others safe.

2. Adjust Your Seat and Mirrors Properly

Comfort and visibility matter a lot when driving. Sit in a position where you can easily reach the pedals and see the road clearly.

Keep your back straight and avoid leaning too much forward.
Adjust your seat height if possible.
Your legs should not be fully stretched while pressing the pedals.
Adjust the rear-view mirror so you can see directly through the back window.
Adjust both side mirrors to cover blind spots.

Proper seat and mirror adjustments help in better control and quicker reaction.

3. Always Wear Seat Belt

Wearing a seat belt is not just a rule — it is a lifesaver. Seat belts protect drivers and passengers in case of sudden braking or accidents. Even short-distance drives require seat belts. Don’t ignore this simple step.

4. Stay Focused on the Road

Distraction is one of the main causes of accidents. Always keep your full attention on driving.

Avoid using mobile phones.
Don’t eat or drink while driving.
Keep the music volume low.
Do not talk too much or turn around to look at passengers.

Your eyes and mind should always stay on the road and surroundings. Even a slight moment of distraction can lead to danger.

5. Follow Traffic Rules and Signs

Traffic rules are made for everyone’s safety. Always follow signals, signs, and road markings.

Stop when the light is red and move only on green.
Respect speed limits.
Do not jump lanes suddenly.
Overtake vehicles only from the right side where allowed.
Give way to pedestrians and emergency vehicles.

Remember, following traffic rules shows discipline and responsibility.

6. Maintain Safe Distance From Other Vehicles

Keeping a safe distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you is essential. This gives enough time to react if the car ahead stops suddenly.

A good rule is the “three-second rule.”
Keep at least a three-second gap in normal conditions. Increase this distance in rain or fog.

7. Use Indicators and Horn Wisely

Indicators communicate your moves to others on the road. Always use them before changing lanes or turning.

Never use the horn unnecessarily. It is only meant to warn others in emergencies or when necessary for safety.

8. Keep a Moderate Speed

Speed thrills but kills. Driving fast may save a few minutes, but it increases the risk of accidents.

Drive within the speed limits and adjust speed according to road and weather conditions. In narrow lanes or heavy traffic, slow down. It is better to arrive late than not to arrive at all.

9. Avoid Aggressive Driving

Road rage, sudden braking, or overtaking can lead to accidents. Always stay calm behind the wheel.

If another driver behaves aggressively, don’t react. Maintain your lane and let them pass. Patience is a powerful tool for safe driving.

10. Be Extra Careful in Bad Weather

Rain, fog, or strong winds can affect your driving. Roads may become slippery and visibility may drop. Take extra precautions.

Turn on headlights in rain or fog.
Reduce your speed.
Avoid sudden braking.
Keep a larger gap with the car in front.
Use wipers and defoggers when needed.

If the weather becomes too bad, it is better to stop safely and wait until it improves.

11. Avoid Alcohol and Drugs

Never drive after drinking alcohol or taking any drug that can make you drowsy. Even a small amount of alcohol affects your reaction time and judgment. This is one of the most serious and punishable offenses. Always be in a clear mind while driving.

12. Know and Use Basic Car Controls Properly

Every driver should know how the main car controls work. This includes accelerator, brake, clutch, gear, lights, indicators, and wipers.

Also, know where the hazard lights, horn, and handbrake are located. If you can control the car properly, you can handle any emergency confidently.

13. Avoid Overloading the Car

Don’t carry too many passengers or too much luggage. Overloading affects the car’s stability, braking power, and mileage. Also, it is against traffic rules in most places. Keep only essential luggage to ensure comfort and safety.

14. Take Breaks on Long Drives

Driving for long hours without rest can make you tired and lose focus. Always take short breaks every two or three hours. Stretch your body, relax your eyes, and drink some water. A fresh mind ensures safer driving.

15. Use Headlights Properly at Night

Night driving is more risky because visibility drops. Always switch on your headlights after sunset.

Use low beams in city areas with street lights.
Use high beams on highways, but lower them when other vehicles come from the front.
Keep your windshield and mirrors clean for better visibility.

16. Keep Emergency Things in the Car

It is smart to keep some basic emergency items in your car. You never know when you might need them.

First-aid kit
Spare tyre and jack
Tire pressure gauge
Torch or flashlight
Water bottle
Tow rope
Basic tools
Emergency numbers

These small things can be of great help during unexpected situations.

17. Be Polite and Responsible

Good manners matter on the road too. Let pedestrians cross first, give way when required, and avoid honking unnecessarily.

A polite driver creates a safer and more comfortable environment for everyone. Respecting others on the road shows real driving maturity.

18. Keep Documents Updated

Every driver must carry all important documents:

Driving license
Vehicle registration certificate
Insurance papers
Pollution under control (PUC) certificate

Make sure they are updated. Keep digital copies as well. This saves you from fines and legal trouble.

19. Stay Calm in Case of an Accident

Even careful drivers can face accidents. In such situations, do not panic.

First, stop the car safely.
Check if anyone is injured.
Turn on hazard lights to alert others.
Call emergency services if required.
Exchange information politely with the other driver.
Avoid arguments.

Control yourself and follow legal steps properly.

20. Learn Defensive Driving

Defensive driving means being prepared for the mistakes of others. You cannot control other drivers, but you can protect yourself.

Predict potential risks ahead.
Stay alert for vehicles changing lanes suddenly.
Avoid blind spots.
Use mirrors frequently.

Defensive driving reduces accident chances and makes you more confident.

21. Use Technology Smartly

Modern cars come with many smart features like GPS navigation, sensors, and cameras. Use these tools wisely but do not depend on them fully. Always trust your own judgment and eyes.

22. Drive According to Road Type

Each road is different, and your driving style should adjust accordingly.

In cities: Expect traffic and pedestrians. Drive slowly.
On highways: Maintain steady speed and use indicators early.
In hilly areas: Keep lower gear and control speed downhill.
On rural roads: Be careful of animals or unmarked turns.

Understanding road conditions helps prevent accidents.

23. Avoid Sudden Movements

Swift turns or sudden braking can make the car unstable. Always drive smoothly. Use gentle acceleration and brakes. Sudden movements also waste fuel and increase wear on the vehicle.

24. Maintain Your Car Regularly

Regular maintenance improves performance and extends the car’s life.

Service the car as per schedule.
Change engine oil, filters, and brake pads on time.
Check battery health.
Keep the car clean inside and outside.

A well-maintained car is safer and more reliable on any road.

25. Stay Patient During Traffic Jams

Traffic jams test every driver’s patience. Avoid honking or changing lanes too often. Keep breathing calmly and follow the flow. Getting angry or restless does not move traffic faster—it only creates stress.

26. Learn Parking Properly

Many accidents happen while parking or reversing. Learn proper parking skills. Always check surroundings before reversing. Use mirrors and backup cameras if available. In tight spaces, move slowly and carefully.

27. Be Alert for Pedestrians and Cyclists

Always stay alert, especially near schools, markets, or crossings. Pedestrians may appear suddenly. Cyclists are often less visible, so keep enough distance from them.

28. Respect Speed Bumps and School Zones

Reduce speed when approaching speed breakers, hospitals, or school areas. These zones require extra care. Follow all warning signs.

29. Do Not Drive When You Are Sleepy

Drowsy driving can be as dangerous as drunk driving. If you feel sleepy, stop and rest. Driving with tired eyes and mind can lead to fatal mistakes.

30. Always Keep Learning

Roads, rules, and car technologies keep changing. Keep updating your driving knowledge. You can attend a refresher driving course or read about new traffic laws. Being an informed driver keeps you confident and prepared.

Final Thoughts

Driving a car safely is not difficult, but it requires awareness and discipline. The key to safe driving is patience, alertness, and responsibility.

Always remember — when you drive, your safety and the safety of others are in your hands. Every careful action saves lives. So, drive responsibly, follow the rules, and respect everyone on the road.

Driving is freedom, but it comes with duty. Follow these simple points every day, and you will not only enjoy driving but also become a good example for others on the road.