As a new driver, people are always telling you about the distractions on the road. They tell you to watch for other cars and pedestrians and to obey the street signs and lights. You are told over and over to put your phone away so you can concentrate—but what no tells you is how you can become a distraction to other driver when you’re the passenger.

Now that you have your driver’s license, you feel empowered, and you may feel the need to pass on your new-found wisdom to others. That’s fine, but not while they’re driving. An argument in a car is the last you thing you want.

Common ways to irritate the driver:

• Tell them the route you would take
• Indicate obvious things like when the light is green or red
• Interfere in the driver’s area
• Ask repeatedly about the car’s safetly features
• Nag about the driver’s speed, asking for directions, etc.

How to Drop the Backseat Driver Habit

You may wonder why you’ve become a backseat driver. According to CAA, 80% of collisions have driver inattention as a contributing factor. People who have been in a minor or major accident develop the fear of being in another accident. They’re nervous and feel they need to control everything in the car, even when they’re not the one driving. Boredom

If you’ve become a backseat driver, here are a few things to change that:

• Talk about your day (or anything pleasant!)
• Look out the window at the scenery
• Listen to music
• Read

In becoming a backseat driver, you are showing the driver that you don’t trust them to get you safely to your destination. You end up stressing the driver out and reducing their concentration. Think about how upset you used to get when Dad would tell you how to drive “the right way”.

If you’re concerned because the person you’re driving with has a bad record, talk to them about it and let them know about your anxiety.  Ask them about their style of driving, like if they mind the radio playing or if they’re okay with chit chatting. Remember to discuss these things before setting out on your long road trip!

It’s a good idea to plan out your trip with details such as which route you’ll take and what stops you’ll make so they won’t become an issue on the open road. You may be a good driver, but that doesn’t mean you are the only one. Respecting your driver is part of being safe.

Contact the professional drivers at Ambitious Drivers for more information on how you can be a better driver, or book a refresher course!

Getting a driver’s licence is an exciting adventure. Before you can reap the rewards of having your own car and a taste of freedom, you first must pass the road test. For many, this test is as nerve-wracking as a final exam in school. Fortunately, we have a few tips up our sleeve to help you pass your test—the first time. From the professionals at Ambitious Drivers, here are a few things to keep in mind to ace your upcoming driving test:

Practice
It’s true that a significant percentage of the North American population has a driver’s license. This doesn’t mean; however, that the driving test is easy. Many young drivers fall into the trap of thinking they don’t need to practice for the test. The truth is, it’s harder than you think. To ace the test, it’s imperative you set aside time to practice, and familiarize yourself with the vehicle you’ll be taking the test with. Whether it’s the family minivan, or your grandpa’s old beater, find a safe vehicle you can practice with. Ensure you are accompanied by an experienced and licenced driver—they can give you valuable tips and ensure you’re driving safely.

Relax
Your first driving test can be nerve-wracking. To avoid distracting anxiety, remember to take a few deep breaths before and during your driver’s test. A great way to calm pre-test nerves is to talk with friends and family who have already completed and passed the test. They can provide you with sound and comforting advice, and give you tips on how to stay calm. If your test is early in the morning, avoid drinking coffee or any caffeinated beverage.

Be Patient
Most people want to get their driving test over with as quickly as possible. Rushing; however, can lead to faults and even accidents. Fortunately, your driving test isn’t timed. Don’t worry about the examiner—it’s their job to wait. If you need a little extra time during the parallel parking portion of the test, don’t sweat it.

Be Open-Minded
Going into a driving test, you should be open-minded about the outcome. Being hard on yourself will only lead to frustration and hindered performance. The important thing to understand is that there are many things out of your control once you’re on the road. Your test score may be negatively affected by aggressive drivers, accidents, or heavy traffic. If you try your best, there’s nothing more you can do.

With the right training, a little patience, and an open mind, we guarantee you’ll ace your upcoming driving test. To prepare for your test with driving classes or lessons, get in touch with us today at Ambitious Drivers in Scarborough. We look forward to helping you reach your goal!

Once perceived as optional, driving classes are now highly recommended for Ontario drivers hoping to take their road test. Getting the right training prior to operating a vehicle is beneficial on both a personal and financial level. From the experts at Ambitious Drivers, here are a few benefits of attending driving classes prior to taking your road test:

Better Safety. Attending a driving school will ensure that you know the rules of the road like the back of your hand. Not only will you possess better driving technique; you’ll have the training to adapt to fluctuating weather conditions, know how to avoid a collision, and be able to drive defensively. Attending driving classes ensures both your safety and that of other drivers on the road.

Practice for the Real Test. There is no better way to increase your chances of passing the road test than with driving classes. Each session, you’ll be put to the test on the road in real-life situations, learning how to safely navigate common problems and challenges on the road. As you practice, you will become more confident on the road. On the day of the real test, you’ll feel like a pro, and won’t be hindered by anxiety or stress.

Stay Up to Date on Rules and Regulations. Rules and regulations on the road are always in flux. A professional driving instructor is aware of all laws associated with driving, and can alert you of recent changes to regulations, so you can ace your road test the first time.

Meet Friends and Driving Partners. Many driving schools pair you with other students during driving sessions, so you can learn not only from your own mistakes, but from that of others. Another advantage? Driving school is a great place to meet new friends and driving partners. You’ll have plenty of people to practice with.

Reduced Waiting Time. With a certificate from a driving school, drivers may take their G2 road test eight months after their written test. Without this certificate, drivers must wait one year.
Better Driving Record. With training from knowledgeable driving instructors, students are less likely to develop bad driving habits in the future, decreasing the likelihood of dangerous accidents, infractions, and costly tickets.

Reduced Insurance Rates. With a certificate from a reputable driving school, the cost of car insurance can be greatly reduced. The discount will vary depending on your insurance provider and coverage, so get in touch with your insurance agent for a quote.

Attending driving classes is beneficial in many ways. You’ll become a better driver, stay up to date on current rules and regulations, and get your full license faster. For more information about our driving classes at Ambitious Drivers, contact us today!