What are the most quintessential aspects of skillful driving?
- Defensive driving
- Precise parking
- Traffic merging
- Practice
Whether you are just beginning to get into driving or currently looking to further refine your driving skills behind the wheel of a Corolla, Fortuner, or Toyota Wigo here in the Philippines, driving an automotive is indeed an artful craft that should be honed.
Maneuvering your way through the streets poses many life-threatening dangers, so it goes without saying that safety should always be your top priority. The ultimate key to becoming a better driver is to work on being a well-rounded one.
Let’s take a good look at some of the major elements that lead you towards becoming a better driver:
A Defensive Driving Mindset
The best first step to getting acquainted with driving is to take lessons. Even if you are a seasoned driver, taking a driving course can serve as a great refresher. The number one lesson that all driving instructors emphasize is to develop a defensive mindset when on the road.
Being a defensive driver essentially means that you veer away from an aggressive driving style; to always move with confident and calculated caution, to prioritize safety and to not “go crazy” when out on the streets.
Working on Parking Accuracy
Parking is definitely something that gets easy once you get the hang of it. But if you find yourself having trouble with tight spots, the best tip is to take advantage of your car’s cameras and sonic sensors, but at the same time, developing your own sense of space with your car and mirror adjustment.
Lanes and Merging into Traffic
One of the top causes of road rage, tragic accidents, and dreaded traffic is inefficient lane merging. Do not be an aggressive lane cutter (or too much of a passive one). Instead, stay calm and be polite. Practice the ‘zipper merging’ or the simple protocol of taking turns. Not only will you develop a sense of guarded confidence on the road, you’ll also be doing your own part in improving traffic for everybody on the road.
Practice Makes Perfect
Just like with any other skill or technique-based craft, the simple and candid truth about becoming a better driver is to just practice. Aside from the many tips, tricks, and techniques, there simply is no secret to becoming a more masterful driver.
There is no substituted for work. You just need to put more hours in and dedicated focus, concentration, and intentionality. And assuredly, with time, you’ll find yourself harnessing a trance-like sense of rhythm for when you head out and drive, regardless of where you are.
Key Takeaway
Driving can definitely be quite the challenge here in the Philippines. Cars like Toyota Wigos are practical and highly-efficient vehicles that can serve as perfect practice cars for those starting out.
Driving is a skill and beautiful form of art, and by following and getting a good grasp of the tips elaborated on above, you’ll find that the path to safe and responsible motoring can also teach you a lot about life!
