10 Things You Should Know as a Woman driving

The chances are, if you’re reading this article, you’re a woman who either has her learner’s permit or her driver’s license. Maybe you got your license last week, or maybe you’ve been driving for years and still have to pass that pesky driving test at the DMV each time you renew your license. Whether it’s your first time behind the wheel or not, we have some tips to help make your experience on the road safer and more enjoyable as a woman driver.

1) Wear seatbelt

When you drive, it’s important to make sure you are wearing your seatbelt. In some countries, including Australia and England, law states that if any of your passengers aren’t wearing their seatbelts then you have to pull over and stop. One of those people could be yourself. There is nothing worse than ending up in an accident and realizing that you forgot to put on your seatbelt because it is uncomfortable when sitting down.

2) Be aware of your mirrors

it’s easy to forget, but you don’t have 360-degree visibility. If you’re backing out of your driveway or pulling into traffic, take a quick glance over your shoulder and make sure there aren’t any cars behind you before turning on your blinker. And while we’re on safe driving practices, know that it might feel safer to sit up straight than to relax in your seat (especially if you tend to drive with several passengers), but keeping your back straight for long periods can actually cause long-term damage to your spine. Instead, turn sideways in your seat, close off part of your window if necessary and place one foot gently against it—you should be able to sit more comfortably with little chance of hurting yourself.

3) Change lanes only when you can see the car behind you

If there is no one behind you and you are passing another car in front of you, it may be okay to change lanes without checking your blind spot. However, it’s generally safer to stay in your lane until someone is following closely enough that they could slam into you if you changed lanes without warning. (Ideally, there will always be someone behind you—you won’t need to change lanes.) If you don’t have anyone behind you and must change lanes, look quickly in your rearview mirror, then check your side-view mirrors and blind spot before switching. Make sure it's safe before proceeding! Never tailgate: Don't let any cars get between yours and the one ahead of it.

4) Learn how to defend yourself

Unfortunately, most of us live in big cities and have no practical way to protect ourselves. Driving is one of those things that we do so often that we don’t even think about it until it’s too late. When was the last time you were in an auto-accident? What about when was your last fight? Chances are, unless you’re a really aggressive driver or perpetually late for work, neither of these scenarios has happened to you lately. Women can (and should) know how to defend themselves both inside and outside their cars. For instance, did you know that biting your assailant is more effective than punching them with your fist?

5) Get used to defensive driving

This means taking extra care in everything you do behind the wheel, from paying attention to more than just what’s in front of you to acting confidently and bravely. This may seem like common sense, but it's important to be aware of what others around you are doing at all times. After all, defensive driving can mean reacting differently than you would if you were on your own or with someone else; for example, instead of leaving an extra space ahead when stopping for a red light, stop right behind another car so that everyone has room to move if need be.

6) Follow traffic rules

All people are required to follow traffic rules and regulations, but women should make sure they do so. Not following traffic rules increases your chances of getting into an accident with another car or pedestrian. Some basic traffic rules include keeping up on your car's maintenance and never texting while driving. Following traffic laws ensures that you are not putting yourself in harm's way when on roads; always assume other drivers have little regard for safety or traffic laws, especially if they are behind you.

7) Drive smart, not overconfident

Women tend to overcompensate for their smaller size by driving more aggressively than they should. Studies show that women are often very poor at gauging how much space they actually need when passing another car or making a turn. Even though you’re behind the wheel, that doesn’t mean you can afford to take unnecessary risks when it comes to road safety. The important thing is to drive smart—not overconfident.

8) Use your car as an asset

Driving is an important skill for everyone to have, but it’s especially important for women. If you live in a remote area or don’t have public transportation readily available, it can be difficult to get around without your own set of wheels. Even if you live in an urban area, having your own car is still useful – after all, what are you going to do when that sudden rainstorm takes down all local transportation options? In order to get where you need to go safely and on time, avoid some common mistakes that people make when they first learn how to drive

9) Communicate with other women drivers through social media channels

Join a local or national women drivers group on Facebook. Connect with people who share your interest and post about safety issues specific to female drivers, like state-by-state car insurance laws and how they may differ from men's coverage. Be sure to ask for feedback. Research studies show that most accidents involving women happen within 5 miles of home and have an accident occur within 3 days of leaving on a trip, so talk about planning before leaving on any trip. Before you leave, create a destination map of where you are going and note important landmarks along your route.

10) Get into the best shape of your life

The best way to improve your health is to get moving. Exercising regularly can help you shed pounds, feel energized, and improve your sleep quality. If you’re unsure where to start, check out our beginner's guide to working out . It features workout ideas for all levels of experience, from just getting started on weights or exercising outside for the first time to in-depth descriptions of strength training exercises for every muscle group. Plan ways to build activity into your schedule by walking more or taking public transportation instead of driving. Then try adding 20 minutes at a time when you can and build up from there—the benefits are worth it!