Hey new drivers, stay safe out there

It’s finally happening! After years of dreaming and plan making, you have your Utah driver’s license — maybe even a car of your own. Freedom! Independence! Parent-free dates! (After the first six months, of course.)

And you are ready. As you put in those 40 practice driving hours with your adult chaperone, you learned that being a responsible driver is more than just putting the key in the ignition and merging into traffic. Parking within the lines? You got it. Using a courtesy card when you fill the gas tank? Nailed it.

Your driving safety course added even more knowledge: how to maintain proper driving distance; slow down when roads are wet; and, there are some gruesome accidents out there.

Learning curve

Yeah, learning all that stuff was kinda challenging at first. How do you watch the road, check your mirrors and glance at the gauges, all at the same time? Not to mention trying to change lanes smoothly. And getting onto the freeway the first time? Whew! We get it. It’s simple, but at the same time, not so simple. 

KSL Cars knows a lot about driving. We’re the perfect place to buy and sell vehicles in Utah. We keep tabs on what’s new in the car industry, with regular car reviews and news. Our series Around the Hood lets you walk into the garages of Utahns who have super expensive and super cool vehicles. We’ve even compiled a list of the best used cars for teens, just for you.

Safety is no accident

So it makes sense we want to help you stay protected on the road, too. KSL Cars and Keys to Success have compiled some driving safety tips, such as how to avoid distractions while at the wheel. We cover ideas you probably already know, such as turning off your phone. But we have more you may not have considered, such as securing your backpack so it doesn’t take a tumble at the first stop sign.

In fact, driving safely begins before you even open the car door. That includes keeping up with your car maintenance, inside and out. Refer to our checklist, which includes handy suggestions.

• Wash your car: Gotta look good, but also, it protects the paint

• Inflate and rotate your tires: Smoother ride, fewer flats

• Clear windows: Even at 7:15 a.m., scrape all the frost off all the windows

• Respect the engine lights: Those cute, lighted symbols on the dash are important; get regular maintenance done

Learn more helpful driving tips on KSL Cars Resource page.

When you’re ready to hit the road, take KSL Cars along. We’ll help you find the car you can afford, and help you keep it — and you — safe.