TL;DR

A quick visual inspection can prevent costly car issues.
Speeding reduces reaction time and raises accident risks.
Rolling through stop signs or running red lights can be fatal.
Distracted driving causes thousands of deaths each year.
Tailgating is aggressive and leads to rear-end collisions.

How many things did you learn in driver's ed that you don't really apply today? As drivers gain experience, they sometimes drop small but crucial habits that can prevent accidents, save money, and even save lives. At Get Drivers Ed, we don’t just teach you to pass the test—we help you build long-lasting safe driving habits.

In this blog, we’ll explore five common driving habits that people forget, why they matter, and how adult drivers ed and refresher courses can help you stay sharp on the road.

1. Visual Inspection of Your Vehicle

It might seem basic, but a quick walk-around before driving can reveal important issues. When was the last time you did this?

Why it matters:

Low tire pressure can lead to blowouts
Visible rust or chipped paint may signal long-term damage
Leaking fluids might indicate brake or engine issues

A few seconds of attention can save you from hundreds in repairs—or a breakdown on the highway. At Get Drivers Ed, our courses remind drivers to treat visual inspections as part of their driving routine, not an optional extra.

👉 Consider checking out basic vehicle maintenance checklists for extra guidance.

2. Obeying Speed Limits

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 10,000 people die annually due to speeding.

Why it's dangerous:

Shorter reaction time
Reduced field of vision
Longer braking distance

Plus, speeding can mean costly tickets and legal trouble. And here’s a bonus: slowing down saves fuel, especially in stop-and-go traffic. At Get Drivers Ed, we teach how mindful speed control contributes to both safety and fuel efficiency.

3. Full Stops at Signs and Red Lights

You may be tempted to “California roll” through that stop sign, especially in your own neighborhood. But failing to stop fully is dangerous and illegal.

Did you know?

A full stop means the vehicle comes to a complete halt behind the line or crosswalk
Over 800 deaths and 143,000 injuries occur annually due to red light violations, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

A moment of patience at a stop sign or red light could save lives. Get Drivers Ed’s defensive driving courses help reinforce these safety rules, even for experienced drivers.

4. Avoiding Distracted Driving

Texting behind the wheel? Changing your playlist? Eating breakfast on your commute?

You're not alone—but you're also not safe.

What counts as distracted driving:

Texting or using your phone
Loud music or complex stereo systems
Talking with passengers
Eating, grooming, or adjusting GPS

The CDC reports that more than 3,000 people die annually due to distracted driving.It’s not just a teen issue—adults are often just as distracted. At Get Drivers Ed, we focus on mindful driving techniques that reduce distractions and keep you focused on the road.

5. Tailgating

Tailgating is one of the most dangerous driving behaviors—and one of the most common.

Why it's a problem:

Leaves no room to brake safely
Causes anxiety for the driver ahead
Responsible for 30% of traffic collisions

Safe following tip:

Stay far enough back that you can see the rear tires of the car in front of you touching the pavement. This gives you space and time to react in case of sudden braking.

Want to learn more about proper following distance and safe driving habits? Enroll in a defensive driving course with Get Drivers Ed to build better habits.

Conclusion: Small Habits, Big Safety Wins

Safe driving isn’t just about passing your test—it’s about the habits you keep every day on the road. From simple walk-arounds to slowing down and staying focused, every small step makes a difference.

Let’s recap:

Visual inspections catch issues before they become expensive or dangerous
Speed limits save lives and reduce fuel use
Full stops aren’t optional—they’re essential
Distractions can cost lives in seconds
Tailgating puts everyone at risk

At Get Drivers Ed, we help drivers of all experience levels stay safe, smart, and ready for whatever the road throws at them. Whether you're a new driver or just need a refresher, our online driver’s ed and adult refresher courses offer flexible, engaging lessons that stick.

Start driving smarter today—enroll in a course with Get Drivers Ed and refresh the habits that keep you safe.