As a new teen driver in Texas, getting behind the wheel is an exciting milestone, but with that newfound freedom comes a lot of responsibility. One of the most common mistakes young drivers make is speeding, which can lead to expensive fines, points on your driving record, and even license suspension. At Get Drivers Ed, we understand the challenges that new drivers face, and we’re here to help you develop safe driving habits to avoid getting speeding tickets. In this blog, we’ll share practical tips on how to stay within the speed limits and why it’s important to follow Texas traffic laws as a teen driver.
1. Know and Understand Texas Speed Limits
Be Aware of the Legal Speed Limits in Texas
The first step in avoiding a speeding ticket is knowing the speed limits. Texas has different speed limits for different types of roads, and these limits can change depending on the area you're driving in. For example, speed limits are typically higher on highways than on residential streets, and school zones have strict limits during certain hours.
Common Speed Limits in Texas:
Highways: Speed limits range from 60 to 85 mph, depending on the highway and whether it’s rural or urban.
Urban Areas: Speed limits are generally between 25 and 35 mph, especially in residential neighborhoods.
School Zones: Most school zones have a speed limit of 20 mph during designated hours, often posted on signs with flashing lights.
Make sure you’re paying attention to speed limit signs as you drive. These signs are there to keep everyone safe, and ignoring them could not only result in a ticket but also endanger you and others on the road. At Get Drivers Ed, we cover all the essential information about speed limits in our teen drivers ed course, helping you stay informed and confident on the road.
2. Use Cruise Control When Driving on Highways
Maintain a Consistent Speed
One of the best ways to avoid accidentally speeding on highways is by using cruise control. Cruise control allows you to set a specific speed and maintain it without having to keep your foot on the gas pedal. This helps prevent unintentional speeding, especially during long drives when it’s easy to lose track of your speed.
When to Use Cruise Control:
Open Highways: Cruise control is most effective on highways with little to no traffic where speeds are consistent.
Avoiding Speed Fluctuations: Many drivers tend to speed up and slow down without noticing it. Cruise control keeps your speed steady, making it easier to avoid exceeding the limit.
While cruise control is a great tool for managing your speed, remember that it’s not suitable for all situations. Avoid using it in heavy traffic, on winding roads, or during inclement weather like rain or fog. At Get Drivers Ed, we teach you how to effectively use cruise control and other helpful tools that keep you safe while driving.
3. Pay Attention to Your Surroundings
Stay Alert for Changes in Speed Limits
Speed limits can change suddenly as you enter different zones or areas, such as transitioning from a highway to a residential street or driving near a school or construction zone. Many teen drivers get tickets because they fail to notice these changes. To avoid speeding tickets, always stay alert and scan the road for posted signs that indicate changes in speed.
Tips for Staying Alert:
Watch for Warning Signs: Many roads will have signs indicating an upcoming change in the speed limit. Pay attention to these signs and adjust your speed accordingly before you pass the new speed limit sign.
School Zones and Work Zones: These areas often have reduced speed limits, especially during specific times of day. If you’re driving near a school or construction zone, keep an eye out for flashing lights or temporary speed signs.
At Get Drivers Ed, we emphasize the importance of staying aware of your surroundings at all times. Our courses teach teen drivers how to recognize different traffic signs and respond to them appropriately, ensuring that you’re always prepared for changes in speed limits.
4. Give Yourself Plenty of Time
Avoid the Temptation to Speed by Leaving Early
Running late is one of the biggest reasons teen drivers tend to speed. If you find yourself rushing to get to school, work, or any other destination, the temptation to push the speed limit can be strong. However, speeding to make up time increases your risk of getting a ticket or causing an accident. The best way to avoid this is by giving yourself extra time before you leave.
How to Manage Your Time:
Plan Your Route: If you know your destination and how long it takes to get there, leave 10-15 minutes earlier than you think you’ll need. This buffer time reduces the pressure to speed.
Check Traffic Reports: Use apps or listen to traffic updates to avoid congested areas. Heavy traffic can lead to frustration and impatience, increasing the likelihood of speeding.
By managing your time wisely, you can avoid the stress of rushing and the temptation to exceed the speed limit. Get Drivers Ed helps teens develop good time management habits as part of our focus on safe, responsible driving.
5. Practice Defensive Driving
Anticipate and Adjust to Road Conditions
Defensive driving is a crucial habit for avoiding tickets and staying safe on the road. As a defensive driver, you learn to anticipate potential hazards and adjust your speed based on the current road conditions, such as heavy traffic, rain, or poor visibility.
Defensive Driving Techniques:
Slow Down in Bad Weather: Rain, fog, and ice can make roads slippery and reduce visibility. Even if the speed limit is higher, you should reduce your speed to match the road conditions.
Keep a Safe Following Distance: Tailgating another car or following too closely can lead to accidents. Always leave enough space between your car and the vehicle ahead, especially in heavy traffic or bad weather.
Stay Calm: If you’re feeling stressed or frustrated, take a deep breath and focus on your driving. Calm drivers are less likely to make impulsive decisions like speeding.
At Get Drivers Ed, we emphasize the importance of defensive driving to help teen drivers avoid dangerous situations and reduce the risk of accidents and speeding tickets. Our comprehensive course covers defensive driving strategies that make you a safer, more cautious driver.
