A handy guide for first-time drivers

With 2020 being, well, 2020, we’ve seen a lot less new drivers on our roads over the summer. From April through to June this year, only 6,369 car theory tests and 6,264 practical tests took place. To put that into perspective, those figures represent respective drops of 98.7% and 98.4% against the numbers from the same period in 2019.

So, there are currently thousands of frustrated, would-be new drivers on the side lines raring to get out on the roads. And what that means is, assuming we drift back to normality at some point in the near future, the end of this year and the start of 2021 could see a bigger-than-usual influx of first-time motorists.

If you’re a new driver, there are a number of problems to deal with both before and after the L-plates come off. First and foremost is ensuring your safety on the road as a newbie, but you’ll no doubt also be wondering about what car to buy for a first-time driver, car insurance quotes for learner drivers and getting insured once you’re passed and ready to roll.

With that in mind, we’ve put together a quick guide that covers the essentials of all three, so you can hit the ground running.

Driving basics

You might well be a little nervous about getting behind the wheel for the first time. That’s only natural, but it’s important you practice good driving habits from the very beginning to ensure your safety as well as that of your passengers and other road users.

Here are a handful of basics that should help every time you start the car - no matter whether you’re a learner or a newly passed driver:

• The cockpit drill: check your doors, seat, seatbelt(s) and mirrors are all secured and positioned correctly.
• Go easy on the pedals: accelerate and brake gently for a calm and smooth ride.
• Maintain a safe and steady speed: know the area’s speed limit and stick to it.
• Keep your distance: maintain a sensible distance from the car in front to give yourself plenty of time to react where necessary.
• Hold the wheel steady: with your hands at a “ten and two” position.
• Be aware of your surroundings: just like in your theory, be conscious of what’s happening both on and around the road, as well as being vigilant of key road signs.
• Communicate effectively: use your mirrors and indicators in good time before making a manoeuvre.

The good news is you’ll have a helpful instructor to keep you in check throughout the learning process, but these tips will remain good practice once you’re out on the roads yourself.

Such advice is especially important for young drivers aged 17-19, who, according to road safety charity Brake, account for 9% of fatal and serious road accidents despite only making up 1.5% of total UK licence holders.

What are the best cars for first-time drivers?

Now you’ve got a general idea of what you’re supposed to be doing, the next question is what’s the best car for first-time drivers, or indeed learners?

Knowing what car to buy for a first-time driver – whether it’s for someone just passed or starting lessons – is not always easy, but there are some basic qualities you might want to look out for. Typically, you want something that won’t cost the earth, has good safety features, isn’t too powerful and is easy to drive – and there are a whole host of options out there.

Best cars for learner drivers and new drivers

Here are three great starter options to consider.

How to get cheaper car insurance as a first-time driver

Car insurance can be the bane of younger and newer drivers’ lives. With Money Saving Expert reporting the typical annual insurance cost to come in at over £900 for 20 to 24-year-olds (and more for those who are younger), it’s important you know the score with insurance before you make a move on purchasing a car.

Car insurance quotes for learner drivers can be nothing short of intimidating, but there are many ways you can increase your chances of getting cheaper cover as a new driver:

• Choose the right car: All three models we’ve mentioned above fit the mould: smaller engines, safe, reliable and cheap. All of these factors lower your risk profile, therefore potentially lowering your premium. Don’t expect to hop into a two-litre racer on day one and receive a pocket-friendly quote from your insurer – choose a sensible car to match your profile.
• Don’t assume third-party insurance is cheaper: These days, it’s not. That’s because third-party insurance has become so heavily associated with new drivers looking for cheaper insurance that the associated risk profile is higher, therefore making comprehensive cover your best bet.
• Add an experienced driver: Adding a parent or family member who is a seasoned driver with a good profile will usually cut your quote.
• Add a black box: Telematics devices that are fixed to your car are a great option for new drivers as they can save you hundreds of pounds – you just need to make sure you drive within the parameters you’ve agreed to.
• Shop around: One of the first rules with any big purchase, don’t be afraid to get tinkering on comparison sites to find you best deal.

Find your first car with Robins & Day

Are you a new driver or set to become one very soon? If so, we’re here to help you find the perfect first car. We offer a wide range of brand-new options that are ideal for first-time drivers, not to mention hundreds of great value used models. You can get up close and personal with potential suitors at your local dealership or browse our full catalogue online, where you’ll also find further useful information for young drivers.

YOUNG DRIVERS