Being a decent driver isn’t automatic because you passed your test or haven’t had any speeding fines.
It’s more about the little things — the stuff that separates the smooth operators from the road menaces. If you’re calling yourself a “good driver,” let’s make sure you’re actually doing the basics (and a few of the underrated extras too).
1. You actually use your indicators.
Yes, they’re there for a reason. If you’re turning, merging, or switching lanes, the rest of us would really appreciate a heads-up. It’s not telepathy out here — it’s traffic. Being a good driver means thinking of other people on the road. A quick flick of your signal arm can save confusion, frustration, and probably a rude hand gesture or two from your fellow drivers.
2. You leave space instead of tailgating.
If you’re so close behind someone that you can see what they’re listening to on the radio, you’re too close. Back off a bit — your brakes (and everyone’s nerves) will thank you. Good drivers know that space is a safety buffer, not an invitation to squeeze in. It also makes for much less stressful driving, which we could all use more of.
3. You don’t treat roundabouts like a game of chicken.
Roundabouts aren’t complicated — yet somehow they turn into chaos on a daily basis. A good driver approaches, gives way, and joins smoothly, without dramatic pauses or dicey entries. It’s not a race, it’s not a guessing game, and you definitely don’t get points for aggression. Being calm and clear is far more impressive than charging through like a maniac.
4. You check your mirrors more than once a week.
Mirrors aren’t just decorative. They help you see what’s going on around you and, you know, not cause collisions. The more you use them, the smoother your driving gets. Good drivers scan often, not just before changing lanes. It’s about being aware, staying prepared, and not being surprised when someone appears beside you — because they’ve been there a while.
5. You wave when someone lets you go.
The thank-you wave is one of the most sacred unspoken rules of the road. Someone lets you out at a junction? Acknowledge it. Small gesture, big impact. It keeps the vibes friendly, and let’s be honest — when someone doesn’t do it, it stings a little. Don’t be that person. A tiny hand raise goes a long way.
6. You don’t treat your horn like it’s a stress ball.
The horn isn’t for expressing your mood. It’s not meant to say, “Hurry up,” “I’m late,” or “You annoyed me.” It’s for actual emergencies or real safety alerts. Good drivers keep it classy. A calm attitude and the occasional polite beep when needed? Fine. Honking like you’re in an action film chase scene? Not the vibe.
7. You know how to park without taking up two spaces.
It’s wild how many people still can’t park properly. Whether it’s a car park or parallel parking, if you need ten adjustments and still end up crooked — maybe take a breath. Good drivers aim for the middle of the space, not the middle of three. It’s not about perfection, just awareness that you’re sharing the road (and the Tesco car park).
8. You respect speed limits (yes, even in 20 zones).
We all know the urge to push it a little, especially on familiar roads. But speed limits aren’t just there to slow you down — they’re usually about safety for everyone around. Good drivers understand when it’s okay to cruise and when to ease off. Flying through a 20 zone near a school doesn’t make you cool — it makes you careless.
9. You don’t text and drive (not even at red lights).
We know it’s tempting. The notification pings, you’re at a light, you think “just one reply.” But it’s a slippery slope. It takes one second of distraction to mess things up badly. A good driver stays present. The group chat can wait — and if it can’t, pull over like the responsible legend you are.
10. You don’t slam the brakes just because you saw a speed camera.
We’ve all seen it — the panicked slam from 38 to 22 as soon as the camera sign appears. It’s not only obvious, it’s a hazard. Drive smoothly. Breathe. Good drivers maintain steady speeds and know the limits without overreacting. Plus, those braking jolts are annoying for everyone in the car (and anyone behind you).
11. You don’t treat every merge like a battle.
The merging lane isn’t a challenge. You don’t get a prize for blocking other cars from joining. It’s about timing, flow, and just a little bit of kindness. Good drivers let people in, and they also know when to zip in themselves without barging or hesitating too much. It’s a team effort, not a turf war.
12. You don’t hog the middle lane like you own it.
Middle-lane syndrome is real, and it’s maddening. If you’re not overtaking, you really shouldn’t be there. It slows everything down and winds everyone up. Good drivers move back to the left when it’s safe. It keeps traffic flowing and shows you’re actually paying attention — which is kind of the whole point of driving.
13. You drive to the conditions, not just the rules.
Fog, rain, icy mornings — you can follow the speed limit perfectly and still drive badly if you don’t adapt to what’s happening around you. It’s about common sense, not just law. Good drivers ease off when the weather’s bad, leave more space, and stay alert. Being in control doesn’t mean being rigid — it means being smart and flexible.
14. You don’t get weirdly competitive about overtaking.
Someone overtakes you. It happens. It’s not a personal attack. But some drivers turn into action heroes the moment someone dares to pass them, and it’s exhausting to witness. Good drivers don’t turn journeys into races. They know getting there safely and sanely matters more than being first at the lights. You’re not in a movie — you’re in a Ford Focus.
15. You drive like you’re not the only one on the road.
This is the golden rule. At the end of the day, good driving is less about skill and more about mindset. If you drive like the road is shared — because it is — you’re halfway there. It’s about courtesy, awareness, and a bit of patience. If more of us drove like that, the roads would be a lot less stressful (and honestly, a lot more fun).
