How To Make Sure You’re Always in the Speed Limit

One the main problems that learner drivers face when they first start taking driving lessons is managing to maintain a constant speed and keep the car within the designated speed limits for the area they are in. Some of this comes down simply to inexperience, as it can often take a little while to get fully used to the pedals in a car so that you can control the force used to make it move, whereas occasionally it can also be attributed to bad habits that need to be trained out of the pupil before they are ready to take their test.

With that in mind we have decided to compile a short list of what a new student needs to do to ensure that they stay within the limit. These tips can be taken through into later life as well and will always ensure you are driving at the legal limit.

Tip 1 – Look for signs

One of the first things a new student needs to learn when they head out for a driving lesson is that paying attention to what is happening around them is as important as paying attention to the car itself. This is especially the case when it comes to maintaining the correct speed, as most areas will have signs notifying you of the limit.

Always keep to the speed displayed on these signs and remember that the standard limit is usually 30mph, which you need to stick to if not signs are available to tell you otherwise. Also remember that driving too slowly in an area with a higher limit can also be very dangerous, so try to get as close to the limit as conditions allow, without exceeding it.

Tip 2 – Check the speedo

It sounds like a blindingly obvious statement but its something that so many new drivers forget to do. The speedometer is obviously the indication of how fast you are going and should be constantly checked to ensure you are sticking to the correct speed.

The trick is to give it a glance without letting it distract from what you are doing on the road. Spending too much time trying to get the needle perfect without paying attention to your driving can be hazardous, so just glance and adjust as needed.

Tip 3 – Concentration

A lack of concentration can lead to all sorts of driver errors and speeding is just one of them. If you aren’t paying attention to yourself, your car and the other vehicles on the road then you are simply an accident waiting to happen.

Whenever you get behind the wheel always makes sure that you are concentrating. Don’t let your mind wander and make sure that you are constantly checking on what you and the people around you are doing. This way you won’t end up accidentally putting your foots a little too far down without even realising it.

Tip 4 – Don’t Let Other Road Users Influence You

There will always be a few bad eggs that constantly try to get you to drive faster than you should. They will tailgate, make overtures about overtaking you and generally be a nuisance and a potential hazard when on the road.

Don’t allow yourself to be influenced by their actions and concentrate on your own driving instead. Maintain a legal and comfortable speed at all times in such situations.