Be A Backseat Driver

You've heard the expression. Backseat Driver. It's someone who gives driving advice and directions to drivers from either the backseat or the passenger's seat.

Nobody likes to be caught being a backseat driver. But if you're in a driver's education course and on your way to getting your license, being a backseat driver can pay off -- as long as you keep your mouth shut in the process.

What Are They Doing Wrong?

The next time you find yourself in the car with an experienced driver, pay attention. You'll be surprised to find that they might not be following the rules of the road as learned in your driver's education course to the fullest.

Why? The fact is that as time goes by and drivers move beyond their driver's ed days, they get into a routine. They drive the same route, stop at the same stop sign, turn down the same road, and pass the same buildings on the way to the same job. They become comfortable enough with their surroundings that they feel they know what's around the corner. And, over time, they develop driving habits that aren't consistent with the rules of the road taught in a driver's education course.

Stop Sign or Roll Sign?

Many drivers fail to obey the stop sign. You know the law. You remember from your driver's education course that when you come to a stop sign, you must come to a complete stop. You must look left, then right, then left again. Only once it's safe to proceed may you move forward.

Unfortunately, many drivers today fail to obey the stop sign and the rules instilled in them in their driver's education program. They feel that slowing down for a stop sign is sufficient enough. It's called the rolling stop and the fact of the matter is it's unsafe. Pedestrians could be crossing, the roads could be slippery and the results could end up being disastrous.

Next time you see this, take a mental note. Remember that what they did is illegal. They are breaking one of the most basic rules of the road and violating driver, passenger and pedestrian safety.

Speeding

Speed limits are posted for a reason. Certain factors are taken into consideration such as whether or not you're driving through a residential neighborhood or a school zone. Next time you're in a vehicle with someone -- even the most experienced driver -- pay attention as to whether they're adhering to the posted speed limit. If they're traveling too fast, they may pay the price in the form of a ticket. When you get behind the wheel, that's the last thing you want.

Paying Attention Can Pay Off

Being a backseat driver can help you prepare for life on the road. Paying attention to what other drivers are doing wrong and mentally correcting the problem can help you ace the driving test. Just be sure not to annoy the driver. Keep your notes to yourself.