You’ve probably spoken to a lot of people about how to drive a car and come up with a lot of conflicting opinions. Some will tell you that driving is an extremely empowering experience while others might say that it can be quite nerve wracking. You will be told that the independence it offers is uplifting and at the same time some may say that you will be a slave to your vehicle.
But on both sides of the divide, you will find common threads of shared experiences and problems encountered while driving. The thing to remember is that as with everything in life, driving comes with its pros and cons.
We are here to try and explain to you how to minimise the risks associated with driving while maximising the fun and opportunities to be had.
Understanding the capabilities of the car is of prime importance for the driver. Some of the common aspects for both manual and automatic transmissions are listed below in a sequential manner.
- The specifications of the vehicle.
- Door opening and getting into the driver seat.
- Seat positioning as per the comfort of the driver and fastening the seat belt
- Adjustment of the driving seat and steering wheel (where possible).
- Side view mirrors and rear view mirror adjusted to suit one’s preference.
- Get familiar with the gear pattern/onboard gadgets/lights/fuel gauge etc.
Once you are done with the above, let’s understand how to drive a car.
Also read: 10 Golden Tips for Beginner Car Drivers in India; Practical First Cars to Own under 5 Lakhs
How to Drive a Manual Car?
The manual transmission car is where you have to use all your senses and remain totally focused while driving. Let us give you a few pointers on how to do so:-
- The engine should be powered on when the gear is in neutra. In modern day cars it is essential to engage the clutch while starting the engine. This avoids a sudden jerk if the vehicle is not in neutral. The gear knob is numbered from 1-4 or 5 with R standing for reverse.
- Drivers then disengage the handbrakes while putting the vehicle in first gear to set the vehicle in motion. They control the clutch with their left foot; the accelerator with the right one. Proper coordination between the hand and gear knob, the foot and the pedal is essential to have a smooth and comfortable drive.
- To increase the speed of the vehicle the gears are changed appropriately while depressing and releasing the clutch. When the speed needs to be reduced we press down on the brakes while following the same process in reverse.
- To stop the vehicle we use the brakes while engaging the clutch. This ensures that the vehicle does not stall. The gear can then be brought back to the neutral position or re-engaged to the right one as per the circumstances.
- Reversing a vehicle should be carefully done while looking around for any obstructions in the parking place utilising the side and rear view mirrors for the same. When parking, use the hand brake to keep the vehicle from moving. Turn off the ignition.
How to Drive an Automatic car?
You might find that driving an automatic car is comparatively hassle-free, but nonetheless focus should be maintained at all times. The list below should help you out.
- The automatic car starts while one foot is pressed on the brake and Ignition is turned on.
- One must then shift the gear lever into the drive mode while lifting the foot from the brakes so that the vehicle begins to move.
- Automatic cars usually have P,R,N,S & D letters denoting Parking, Reverse, Neutral, Sport and Drive. Some automatics usually have M for manual as well, with + and – to switch between gears.
- The headache of changing gears is avoided and the accelerator is used to control the speed of the vehicle.
- To bring the vehicle to a complete stop; disengage the accelerator and then engage the brake to stop the vehicle.
- The vehicle can be reversed by pushing the lever into R position. Once the manoeuvre is complete, the lever is moved to P if you are going to park. If you have reversed to change direction you move the lever to D if you are driving on.
- If you need to park, put the gear in the parking position, apply the parking brake,and turn off the ignition.
If you wish to get more details on how to drive an automatic car, it’s no surprise we’ve got you covered.
Also read: How to make a smooth transition from a manual to an automatic transmission; List of best automatic cars in India in 2022
Tips to Remember While Driving a Car in Traffic
- Be alert and focused on your driving.
- Usage of clutch should be at a minimum due to its wear and tear. It should be disengaged immediately on changing gears and when the vehicle is in neutral.
- Stay in your lane. Do not switch.
- Avoid unnecessary honking and follow traffic rules.
- Appropriate light or hand signals to be used.
- Always glance at the side and rear view mirrors while overtaking, and also to look out for other vehicles on either side of your car.
- Keep the vehicle within the speed limit.
- Map out the route to be taken prior to starting for your destination or use proper GPS coordinates.
- Do not follow the car in front of you too closely.
- Avoid braking suddenly as the vehicle behind might telescope into yours.
Safety Tips to Remember While Driving a Car in Traffic
- Use Seat belts at all times.
- Maintain appropriate distance from the vehicle in front.
- Pay due attention to pedestrians crossing.
- Do not drink and drive.
- Do not use mobile phones.
- Avoid speeding.
- Do not get distracted, and remain attentive.
Summary – How to Drive a Car: Manual and Automatic
There is no doubt that driving gives one a sense of independence and broadens horizons. Whether you choose a manual or automatic car will purely depend upon your requirement, taste and temperament.
The equipment that is provided as standard on most vehicles nowadays make for a premium feeling when the driver gets behind the wheel. The satisfaction you will gain from it will only increase when the vehicle is driven responsibly.
While driving, one must be ever-alert, and follow traffic rules always. Last of all, never, simply NEVER drive under the influence of alcohol to ensure not only your own safety but also that of others around you.
FAQs About How to Drive a Car: Manual and Automatic
Q. How do you drive a car for the first time?
- Before turning on the ignition, adjust yourself in a comfortable posture and adjust the belt and mirrors to suit your position.
- Have an experienced driver as your companion.
- Do not overthink the situation and be calm as driving is a huge responsibility.
- Stick to known areas initially and short distances while gaining confidence.
- Avoid state and national highways till fully confident of your driving skills.
Q. Is car driving easy?
Driving a car is easy once you are comfortable with the controls. It requires practice and knowledge of the traffic rules for which dedication and hard work is necessary.
Q. What is the proper way to drive a car?
- Familiarise yourself with your car.
- Avoid unnecessary distractions
- Adjust your seat with regards to the pedals. Make sure the seat belt is put properly and the steering wheel fits snugly in your hands.
- Use proper signals while changing lanes or overtaking.
- Follow traffic rules
- Maintain proper driving etiquette.
Q. What are the rules of driving a car?
- Have a valid driver’s license.
- Valid insurance at all times.
- Do not drive under the influence of alcohol.
- Do not use mobiles while driving but only for navigational purposes.
- Observe traffic rules.
Q. How can you tell if someone is good at driving?
- Proper seating position.
- Focused and proactive to the changing situations.
- Line of vision (position of seating indicates the distance of vision).
- Handling of the clutch (modulation and progression)/accelerator (squeeze) and brakes (gradual and firm).
- Driving etiquette.
Q. How do you drive a car without fear?
One should be confident but not overconfident about their driving ability. Stay proactive and drive with someone with experience to alleviate the fear of the unknown. With self confidence increasing, you begin to enjoy driving and become more adept with time and experience. Always remember you are the brains and the car is just an extension of your multifaceted personality. Fear will soon dissipate and you will become a confident driver.
