Tips for first time and learner drivers
Learning to drive can be daunting – there are so many rules to remember! But with a little prep, you'll become a pro in no time.
Understand how car insurance works
Before you jump behind the wheel, you'll want to know a bit about car insurance and your options. Insurance could save you a lot of stress and money if you're ever in an accident, so it's important to be across it.
What are the different types of car insurance?
Bingle has two types of car insurance – Comprehensive and Third Party Car Insurance. Comprehensive Car Insurance covers you for accidental loss or damage to your own car caused by incidents such as accidents, theft, storms and fire, as well as your liability for damage caused to other vehicles and property (you are covered for up to $20m legal liability for any one incident). Third Party Car Insurance just covers you for legal liability for accidental damage caused to other people's cars and property by the use of your car, also up to a limit of $20m).1
Of course, that's just a quick summary. Other features and inclusions will vary between different insurance companies and products. You can compare Bingle's car insurance products for more detail.
What is a car insurance excess?
- An excess is the amount you'll need to contribute to the claim. The insurer then covers the rest of the repair or replacement costs, up to your policy limits.
- There are times when you may have to pay more than one excess amount – like if the person driving the car at the time of the incident was under 25 years of age (this could be different depending on your insurer), or if the driver wasn't listed on the policy.
- With Bingle, learner drivers don't need to be listed as drivers on the policy while they are on their L plates. However, to avoid the unlisted driver excess, a listed driver should always be in the car while the learner is driving. Once the learner driver is on their Ps you may want to list them as a driver on your policy. Otherwise an unlisted driver excess might apply.
Check out our Excesses page for more information on the different types of excesses for Bingle's cover.
Get your driving position ready
Before hitting the road, it's important to adjust your car – especially if you're not the only one who drives it, as the settings may be different every time you get in. Move your chair so you can reach the pedals and see the road, and position your side and rear-view mirrors so you have a good view of the cars around you.
Limit distractions
Distraction has been identified as a contributing factor in 15.9% of car crashes2. Making sure your phone is out of reach, your passengers are being sensible, and music playing isn't too loud will help keep your attention on the road and help make sure everyone in your car is safe.
Stick to what you're comfortable with
Not ready to drive on the highway? Don't stress, you'll get there. Communicate how you feel to the person teaching you to drive. It's important to get experience driving on different road types and in a variety of weather conditions, but it's best to wait until you feel confident. Starting with quiet streets and more isolated areas like empty car parks is a great way to get to know how your car works and build up those core driving skills.
Maintain your car
Knowing your car has enough oil or tyre tread won't just keep your mind at ease while driving, it'll also keep you safe. Get someone to show you how to check these, along with your headlights, brake lights and other fluid levels. It's a habit that will keep you and your passengers safe, and a useful skill to have once you're driving on your own.
Practice makes perfect (or close to it!)
Nobody's a perfect driver at first, so it's important to be patient with yourself and take it one day at a time. Every time you jump behind the wheel you're increasing your experience and becoming a better driver – so practice, practice, practice!
