You’re now a driver of a certain age and with plenty of experience. Do you ever wish that somebody could’ve told you when you were new the things you know now? It would have made you road life a lot easier. You can’t turn back the clock but you have new drivers in the family, you can set them on the right road with some sage advice.

Start with the Insurance

You’ll be spending a good chunk of your transportation money on insurance so begin your driving quest by improving the factors that determine your insurance rate. That starts with the car your drive: an older used family car will cost less to insure than the latest sports car. You can also qualify for certain discounts if you bundle your coverage with your parents, get good grades, and avoid accidents and traffic violations. Excellent credit also helps so manage your credit cards and finances wisely.

Avoid Distractions

According to the National Highway Transportation Administration, distracted driving claimed 3,477 lives and injured 391,000 in 2015 alone. The term relates to any activity that takes attention away from your driving, such as talking on the phone, fiddling with the radio, eating, and drinking. If you want to avoid this danger, simply remove anything within reach that could distract you. Store smartphones in the glove compartment or trunk, finish food and drink before you get into the car, and set your GPS system before you get on the road.

Rely on Your Car is a Source of Cash

When you need a quick loan to pay for tuition or an unforeseen repair, you can use your vehicle as a source of money while still owning it. All you need is one of the available auto title loans, which relies on your car as collateral for a small, short-term loan. You can typically apply online or at a storefront by presenting your vehicle, photo ID, the clear title and proof of insurance. Be sure to review the loan terms carefully so you know what you’re getting into and when payments are due. If you’re unable to pay off the loan during its typical 30-day period, your lender may let you roll over what you owe into a new loan.

Drive Defensively

Two aggressive drivers who try to outdo each other on a crowded highway present a danger not only to themselves but to the people around you. As a new driver, you may make mistakes or drive more slowly than what others are used, causing them to get angry at you. Your best bet is to ignore any hostile gestures or moves they make against you, such as cutting you off or driving too closely behind you. Take a deep breath and give them plenty of leeway by moving to another lane or getting off at the nearest exit. If the other driver continues to harass, drive to the nearest police station and ask for help from an officer.

Maximize Maintenance

The key to having a car that gives you years of efficient service is to keep it maintained. Spending a little bit of money now to bring it in for scheduled care can pay off in minimal or non-existent repair bills in the future. If you hear something strange from the engine, smell something unusual, or experience rough driving, take your car to a mechanic right away so the problem can be diagnosed and fix. Delaying the repair may make the problem worse and lead to a far more expensive solution later on.

Keep Your Distance

Be sure to maintain enough empty space between you and the next vehicle so you can stop safely if the other car make sudden maneuvers. That space will vary by the speed your traveling and the size of your vehicle but a good rule is to allow at least three seconds between yourself and the other car. If it’s raining or snowing, you want to slow down and allow even more time because stopping distances will increase.