Smarter Driver Podcast

Rick August, PhD
  • 5.0 (3)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to the smarter driver podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Rick August. Here, we're going to get you on the road to being a safer, smarter driver. And no…my degree's not in driving. My degree in fact, is in legal history, which many of you know is the study of policing, courts and prisons. My expertise is in policing as it relates to traffic. Here we're going to look at the fundamental conflict of traffic which is: Collisions vs. Congestion And we're going to look at the arena of social driving. The challenges you face as a driver, the challenges you face when getting a license, or starting a career as a truck or bus driver. The car's all gassed up, we're ready to go. Let's get started. With the smarter driver podcast we provide the stepping stones towards your success in driving. We empower you to achieve your goals and aspirations as they relate to getting your first license, becoming a safer, smarter driver, or starting a career as a truck or bus driver. If you're just starting out and working towards getting your first license, be sure to check out the smarter driver course package down in the description. Guaranteed to pass first time. As well, if there's something about driving that really irks you, and you'd like to get it off your chest, please leave a comment. I'm your host, Dr. Rick August. Thanks very much for listening. And remember, pick the best answer not necessarily the right answer. Have a great day, bye now.

  1. 8 Reasons You Will Fail Your Driver's Test (Avoid These Common Mistakes)

    2D AGO

    8 Reasons You Will Fail Your Driver's Test (Avoid These Common Mistakes)

    Learn the 8 reasons that you will potentially fail your driver's test. SUBSCRIBE TODAY! ►  http://youtube.com/c/smartdrivetest **************** COURSES & CHECKLIST Get My Driver's Test Checklist ► https://www.smartdrivetest.com/ Click for COURSE Package that includes: 1) Pass Driver's Test First Time 2) Defensive Driving Smart 3) Winter Driving Smart https://www.smartdrivetest.com/smarter-driver-course-package/ "GUARANTEED Pass Your Road Test "First Time" Pass Your Road Test First Time Coupon - youtube30 **************** RESOURCES Must See Driver's Test Skills: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afkc2fNjbnU&list=PL0x-bChcUvwGp-zdoI8yx1JvWmo9D3n7H&index=4&t=15s STOP Sign rules: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQH1puYzMlM&list=PL0x-bChcUvwGD1gxXWOYprZvZndtdWDJ5&index=1&t=105s **************** DESCRIPTION Passing your driver's test is easier when you know the most common mistakes that cause test failures. In this video, driving instructor Rick from Smart Drive Test explains the 8 biggest reasons people fail their driver's test and how you can avoid them. Many new drivers fail their road test because they lack mastery of the vehicle controls, position the vehicle incorrectly in the lane, drive too slowly, or fail to observe hazards properly. These mistakes cause driving examiners to assign you demerit points. These points can quickly result in a failed test. You'll also learn why stop sign positioning, pedestrian safety, and maintaining proper following distance are critical skills examiners expect from safe drivers. Rick also explains what your job is during the road test, what the examiner is evaluating, and practical strategies to help you stay calm and confident behind the wheel. Where ever you're taking your driver's test,  the principles of safe driving are the same. Understanding these common errors will dramatically improve your chances of passing your driving test the first time. Watch the video carefully, practice the skills discussed, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a safe, confident driver who passes the road test successfully. Good luck on your road test. #SmartDriveTest #DriversTest #drivingtestfail #drivingtesttips #learntodrive  **************** CHAPTERS 00:00 – 8 Reasons People Fail the Driver's Test 02:07 – #8 No Mastery of Basic Car Controls 03:14 – #7 Poor Lane Positioning While Driving 04:55 – #6 Driving Too Slowly on the Road Test 05:39 – Never Scare the Driving Examiner 06:15 – #5 Poor Observation and Hazard Awareness 07:24 – #4 Ignoring or Disobeying Traffic Signs 08:45 – #3 Dangerous Actions During the Road Test 09:25 – #2 Not Knowing What's on the Driving Test 10:56 – Correct Stopping Position at a STOP Sign 14:08 – STOP Sign Rules in U.S. Driver Handbooks 15:21 – STOP Sign Rules in Canadian Driver Handbooks 16:24 – Passing Distance from Pedestrians on a Test 17:20 – Parallel Parking: How Many Pull-Ups Allowed 18:50 – Your Job vs. the Driving Examiner's Job 19:52 – What to Do If You Can't Get a Driving Test 20:45 – Key Points to Remember for Your Road Test 21:39 – Why Tailgating Causes Test Failures *************** SOCIALS www.smartdrivetest.com www.facebook.com/smartdrivetest www.twitter.com/smartdrivetest www.instagram.com/smartdrivetest/ Join the Smart Driver's Mastermind Group: https://goo.gl/h5Q8Vd Music: BoxCat Games Nameless: The Hackers RPG Soundtrack - Epic Song **************** MONETARILY SUPPORTING THE CHANNEL If you wish to support the channel monetarily, you can donate via PayPal here: https://www.paypal.me/smartdrivetest This is appreciated and helps the channel, but please don't feel that it is necessary to be part of the smarter driver community.

    23 min
  2. Driving Test Secrets: What Driving Examiners Look For (Pass First Time)

    APR 10

    Driving Test Secrets: What Driving Examiners Look For (Pass First Time)

    Learn what driving examiners really look for during a road test and the key mistakes that cause drivers to fail their driving test. SUBSCRIBE TODAY! ►  http://youtube.com/c/smartdrivetest **************** COURSES & CHECKLIST Get My Driver's Test Checklist ► https://www.smartdrivetest.com/ Click for COURSE Package that includes: 1) Pass Driver's Test First Time 2) Defensive Driving Smart 3) Winter Driving Smart https://www.smartdrivetest.com/smarter-driver-course-package/ "GUARANTEED Pass Your Road Test "First Time" Pass Your Road Test First Time Coupon - youtube30 **************** DESCRIPTION Passing your driving test isn't about perfection—it's about proving to the driving examiner that you can operate a vehicle safely and predictably in real traffic conditions. In this episode of the Smart Drive Test podcast, licensed driving instructor Rick August explains what driving examiners are really evaluating during your road test and how you can dramatically increase your chances of passing the first time. You'll learn the most common mistakes that cause drivers to fail, including observation errors, poor lane positioning, and misunderstanding right-of-way rules. Rick also explains the biggest myths about driving examiners, why shoulder checking is the number one skill for passing a driving test, and how simple habits like proper following distance and correct lane use can make the difference between pass and fail. Whether you're preparing for your first road test or trying again after a failed attempt, these strategies will help you become a safer, smarter driver. Good luck on your road test. #SmartDriveTest #DriversTest #drivinginstructor  #drivingtesttips #beginnerdriver  **************** CHAPTERS 00:00 – Driving Examiner Secrets: How to Pass Your Driving Test 03:05 – First Impressions: What Examiners Notice Before the Test Starts 04:00 – Driving Test Myths About Examiners (What's Actually True) 05:23 – Pre-Trip Vehicle Check: What to Inspect Before Your Road Test 06:27 – The #1 Driving Test Mistake That Causes Drivers to Fail 08:42 – Why You Should Practice Near Your Driving Test Center 12:18 – The Two Main Ways Drivers Fail Their Road Test 13:44 – Learn Correct Driving Habits from the Very Beginning 14:52 – Steering Wheel Control Skills for the Driving Test 16:06 – Why You Must Practice Driving to Pass the Road Test 16:29 – Final Tip: Practice on Roads Near Your Test Location *************** SOCIALS www.smartdrivetest.com www.facebook.com/smartdrivetest www.twitter.com/smartdrivetest www.instagram.com/smartdrivetest/ Join the Smart Driver's Mastermind Group: https://goo.gl/h5Q8Vd Music: BoxCat Games Nameless: The Hackers RPG Soundtrack - Epic Song **************** MONETARILY SUPPORTING THE CHANNEL If you wish to support the channel monetarily, you can donate via PayPal here: https://www.paypal.me/smartdrivetest This is appreciated and helps the channel, but please don't feel that it is necessary to be part of the smarter driver community.

    18 min
  3. Drinking and Driving: Why It's a Leading Cause of Traffic Deaths in the U S

    APR 2

    Drinking and Driving: Why It's a Leading Cause of Traffic Deaths in the U S

    Drinking & driving are a MAJOR contributing factor in fatal crashes in the United States. SUBSCRIBE TODAY! ►  http://youtube.com/c/smartdrivetest **************** COURSES & CHECKLIST Driver's Test Checklist ► https://www.smartdrivetest.com/dont-fail-drivers-test-checklist  Click for COURSE Package that includes: 1) Pass Driver's Test First Time 2) Defensive Driving Smart 3) Winter Driving Smart https://www.smartdrivetest.com/new-drivers/smarter-driver-package "GUARANTEED Pass Your Road Test "First Time" Pass Your Road Test First Time Coupon - youtube30 **************** DESCRIPTION Drinking and driving continues to be one of the leading causes of traffic deaths in the United States. In this episode of the Smart Drive Test podcast, we explore why impaired driving remains such a serious safety issue and how it contributes to thousands of preventable crashes every year. Host Rick with Smart Drive Test discusses the factors that make traffic fatalities in the U.S. higher than in many other developed countries. The conversation looks at the role of large vehicles on American roads, how crash severity increases with vehicle size, and how historical road safety laws—such as seatbelt legislation—were developed to protect drivers and passengers. The podcast also examines how blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits are used to measure impairment, why determining impairment can be complicated, and why drunk driving laws vary from state to state. Understanding these legal and safety frameworks can help drivers make better decisions and recognize the real risks associated with alcohol and driving. Finally, the episode highlights practical defensive driving strategies that motorists can use to reduce crash risk and stay safer on the road. Whether you're a new driver, preparing for a driver's test, or simply interested in improving your driving skills, this discussion provides valuable insight into one of the most critical road safety issues today. Good luck on your road test! #SmartDriveTest #drinkinganddriving   #trafficsafety   #beginnerdriver #trafficsafety   *************** CHAPTERS 00:00 – Drinking and Driving: A Leading Cause of Traffic Deaths in America 03:28 – Why the U.S. Has Higher Traffic Fatalities Than Other Developed Countries 07:23 – How Large Vehicles Increase Crash Severity in the U.S. 09:11 – How Road Safety and Traffic Laws Began in the United States 10:57 – How Seatbelt Laws Started and Why They Save Lives 14:48 – Blood Alcohol Limits: Why Measuring Impairment Is Difficult 17:07 – Why Drunk Driving Laws Differ Across U.S. States 20:38 – Why Public Transportation Won't Solve America's Traffic Death Problem 21:35 – Defensive Driving Strategies to Reduce Crash Risk *************** SOCIALS www.smartdrivetest.com www.facebook.com/smartdrivetest www.twitter.com/smartdrivetest www.instagram.com/smartdrivetest/ Join the Smart Driver's Mastermind Group: https://goo.gl/h5Q8Vd Music: BoxCat Games Nameless: The Hackers RPG Soundtrack - Epic Song **************** MONETARILY SUPPORTING THE CHANNEL If you wish to support the channel monetarily, you can donate via PayPal here: https://www.paypal.me/smartdrivetest This is appreciated and helps the channel, but please don't feel that it is necessary to be part of the smarter driver community.

    23 min
  4. Why European Countries Have Fewer Traffic Deaths

    MAR 12

    Why European Countries Have Fewer Traffic Deaths

    Why are traffic deaths in the United States significantly higher than in other developed countries, and what can drivers learn from safer road systems around the world? SUBSCRIBE TODAY! ►  http://youtube.com/c/smartdrivetest **************** CHECKLIST & COURSES Driver's Test CHECKLIST  ► https://www.smartdrivetest.com/dont-fail-drivers-test-checklist Click for COURSE Package that includes: 1) Pass Driver's Test First Time 2) Defensive Driving Smart 3) Winter Driving Smart https://www.smartdrivetest.com/new-drivers/smarter-driver-package "GUARANTEED Pass Your Road Test "First Time" Pass Your Road Test First Time Coupon - youtube30 **************** DESCRIPTION Why are traffic deaths in the United States significantly higher than in many other developed countries? In this episode of Smart Drive Test, we explore the key factors that contribute to the U.S. having one of the poorest traffic safety records among high-income nations. A major factor is speed. As vehicle speed increases, the amount of kinetic energy involved in a crash rises exponentially, making collisions far more severe and increasing the likelihood of fatal injuries. Higher speeds on urban and rural roads contribute to the overall crash severity seen across the United States. Another growing concern is the rise in pedestrian and vulnerable road user fatalities over the past decade. Changes in vehicle size, road design, and driver behaviour have made streets more dangerous for people outside of vehicles. We also examine differences in driver training standards and how less rigorous licensing requirements in some parts of the United States may affect driver preparedness. In addition, traffic law enforcement varies widely across states and regions, which can influence driver behaviour and compliance with safety laws. Finally, we discuss whether advanced driver-assistance technologies may help reduce crashes in the future. Understanding these factors can help drivers make safer choices and improve overall road safety. Good luck on your road test. #SmartDriveTest #trafficsafety #roadsafety #defensivedriving  #drivingeducation  **************** CHAPTERS 00:00 - Why Traffic Deaths Are Higher in the United States 02:27 - Why Higher Speeds Make Crashes Far More Deadly 04:32 - Rising Pedestrian & Vulnerable Road User Fatalities 07:16 - Driver Training Standards in the U.S. vs Other Countries 08:15 - Why Traffic Law Enforcement Varies Across the U.S. 12:39 - Will Driver Assistance Technology Reduce Traffic Deaths? *************** SOCIALS www.smartdrivetest.com www.facebook.com/smartdrivetest www.twitter.com/smartdrivetest www.instagram.com/smartdrivetest/ Join the Smart Driver's Mastermind Group: https://goo.gl/h5Q8Vd Music: BoxCat Games Nameless: The Hackers RPG Soundtrack - Epic Song **************** MONETARILY SUPPORTING THE CHANNEL If you wish to support the channel monetarily, you can donate via PayPal here: https://www.paypal.me/smartdrivetest This is appreciated and helps the channel, but please don't feel that it is necessary to be part of the smarter driver community.

    16 min
  5. Pass Your Driving Test First Time! (Avoid These Automatic Fails)

    FEB 26

    Pass Your Driving Test First Time! (Avoid These Automatic Fails)

    Passing your on-road driver's test the first time isn't luck — it's preparation, strategy, and understanding exactly what the examiner is looking for. SUBSCRIBE TODAY! ►  http://youtube.com/c/smartdrivetest **************** COURSES & CHECKLIST Get My Driver's Test Checklist ► https://www.smartdrivetest.com/ Click for COURSE Package that includes: 1) Pass Driver's Test First Time 2) Defensive Driving Smart 3) Winter Driving Smart https://www.smartdrivetest.com/smarter-driver-course-package/ "GUARANTEED Pass Your Road Test "First Time" Pass Your Road Test First Time Coupon - smart20 **************** RESOURCES "Must Watch" Videos to Pass Your Driver's Test - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afkc2fNjbnU&list=PL0x-bChcUvwGp-zdoI8yx1JvWmo9D3n7H&index=4&t=10s **************** DESCRIPTION Are you preparing for your on-road driver's test and want to pass on your first attempt? In this episode of Smart Drive Test, we break down the exact skills, habits, and mindset you need to succeed. Many fail their driving test, not because they can't drive — but because they don't understand how examiners evaluate performance. In this podcast, you'll learn how to master observation, speed control, lane positioning, communication with other road users, and MOST IMPORTANT - space management. We also discuss common driver's test mistakes that lead to automatic failures and how to avoid them. Your job on a driving test is to demonstrate that you have due care and control of the vehicle in changing traffic conditions. In other words, as the road and traffic changes, you are responding with the best defensive driving practices. The examiner's job is to determine that you have the necessary skills to remain safe on the roadway, know the road rules, and can read traffic patterns, anticipate the actions of others, and respond safely. If you're feeling nervous, that's normal. Take deep breaths when showing up for your test and it the beginning moments when the test begins. Deep breathes in through the nose and out through the mouth will cause your body to relax. Good luck on your road test. #SmartDriveTest #DriversTest #roadtest #drivingtesttips #newdriver  **************** CHAPTERS 00:00 – How to Pass Your On-Road Driver's Test First Time 03:01 – Why You Must NOT "Drive Like Everyone Else" on Your Road Test 03:30 – The Correct 2–3 Second Following Distance (How Examiners Measure It) 05:04 – Space Management: The Skill That Helps You Pass 08:00 – Reading Other Drivers: How Road Users Signal Their Intent 11:05 – What Really Happens If You Fail Your Driving Test 12:33 – How Many Parking Corrections Are Allowed on a Road Test? 13:48 – Automatic Fail: What Happens If You Hit Something *************** SOCIALS www.smartdrivetest.com www.facebook.com/smartdrivetest www.twitter.com/smartdrivetest www.instagram.com/smartdrivetest/ Join the Smart Driver's Mastermind Group: https://goo.gl/h5Q8Vd Music: BoxCat Games Nameless: The Hackers RPG Soundtrack - Epic Song **************** MONETARILY SUPPORTING THE CHANNEL If you wish to support the channel monetarily, you can donate via PayPal here: https://www.paypal.me/smartdrivetest This is appreciated and helps the channel, but please don't feel that it is necessary to be part of the smarter driver community.

    15 min
  6. The Most Dangerous Maneuver on Your Driver's Test: Left Turns

    FEB 12

    The Most Dangerous Maneuver on Your Driver's Test: Left Turns

    Left turns are the most dangerous maneuver on your driver's test—and one of the easiest ways to fail if you don't understand the fundamentals. SUBSCRIBE TODAY! ►  http://youtube.com/c/smartdrivetest **************** COURSES & CHECKLIST Get My Driver's Test Checklist ► https://www.smartdrivetest.com/ Click for COURSE Package that includes: 1) Pass Driver's Test First Time 2) Defensive Driving Smart 3) Winter Driving Smart https://www.smartdrivetest.com/smarter-driver-course-package/ "GUARANTEED Pass Your Road Test "First Time" Pass Your Road Test First Time Coupon - youtube30 **************** RESOURCES We Should All Be More Afraid Of Driving: Two terrifying car accidents taught me that, despite what we like to believe, we can't control what happens on the road - https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2021/05/car-accident/618766/ Diverging Diamond Interchange comes to Washington State - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gLxlXamhgY How to Turn Left to Pass a Driving Test PLAYLIST - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksbCcdOjwY8&list=PL0x-bChcUvwEee3P4OrnVJjnx5IKwGsqT&index=1&t=2s **************** DESCRIPTION Left turns consistently rank as the most dangerous maneuver on a driver's test and in everyday traffic. They require precise timing, accurate observation, clear communication, and correct space management—all while dealing with oncoming vehicles, pedestrians, and changing traffic signals. In this Smart Drive Test podcast, we break down why left turns cause so many driving test failures and collisions, especially at busy intersections. You'll learn why practicing the fundamentals in a low-risk environment like a parking lot is essential before attempting left turns in live traffic, and why yellow lights are one of the biggest traps for new drivers. We also explain best practices for positioning when turning left, how to decide whether to merge in front of or behind another vehicle, and why modern road designs like roundabouts and divergent diamond interchanges exist to reduce or eliminate left-turn conflicts altogether. Whether you're preparing for your driver's test or looking to become a safer, more confident driver, this video will help you understand the risks, rules, and proven strategies for making left turns safely and correctly every time. Good luck on your road test. #LeftTurns #DriversTestTips #SmartDriveTest #SafeDriving #DrivingTestFailures **************** CHAPTERS 00:00 – Why Left Turns Are the Most Dangerous Maneuver on a Driver's Test 01:49 – Master the Basics in a Parking Lot Before Turning in Traffic 04:53 – Why Left Turns on Yellow Lights Cause Driving Test Failures 08:18 – Turning Left: When to Merge in Front of or Behind Another Vehicle 10:45 – How Divergent Diamond Interchanges Reduce Left-Turn Conflicts 12:07 – The Real Benefits of Roundabouts (and Why They're Not "Traffic Calming") 14:40 – Best Practice for Making Safe, Test-Ready Left Turns *************** SOCIALS www.smartdrivetest.com www.facebook.com/smartdrivetest www.twitter.com/smartdrivetest www.instagram.com/smartdrivetest/ Join the Smart Driver's Mastermind Group: https://goo.gl/h5Q8Vd Music: BoxCat Games Nameless: The Hackers RPG Soundtrack - Epic Song **************** MONETARILY SUPPORTING THE CHANNEL If you wish to support the channel monetarily, you can donate via PayPal here: https://www.paypal.me/smartdrivetest This is appreciated and helps the channel, but please don't feel that it is necessary to be part of the smarter driver community.

    18 min
  7. Defensive Driving Tips to Stay Safe in Deep Snow & Winter Storms

    FEB 5

    Defensive Driving Tips to Stay Safe in Deep Snow & Winter Storms

    Defensive driving skils and abilities to stay safe on ice and in deep snow. SUBSCRIBE TODAY! ►  http://youtube.com/c/smartdrivetest **************** COURSES & CHECKLIST Get My Driver's Test Checklist ► https://www.smartdrivetest.com/ Click for COURSE Package that includes: 1) Pass Driver's Test First Time 2) Defensive Driving Smart 3) Winter Driving Smart https://www.smartdrivetest.com/smarter-driver-course-package/ "GUARANTEED Pass Your Road Test "First Time" Pass Your Road Test First Time Coupon - youtube30 **************** DESCRIPTION Driving in deep snow and winter storms presents serious challenges for even experienced drivers. Reduced traction, hidden black ice, limited visibility, and sudden traffic slowdowns mean that defensive driving skills are essential for staying safe on winter roads. In this Smart Drive Test podcast episode, we break down practical defensive driving tips to help you stay in control during severe winter conditions. You'll learn where black ice is most likely to form, why curves and corners are especially dangerous in snow, and how to recover safely if your vehicle begins to skid. We also discuss what to do if traffic suddenly backs up on the highway during a winter storm, how to correctly measure following distance when roads are slippery, and the smart driving habits that reduce risk in deep snow. These strategies are especially important for new drivers, drivers preparing for a road test, and anyone who regularly drives in harsh winter conditions. Whether you're facing heavy snowfall, icy highways, or winter storm travel, this episode will help you drive calmly, anticipate hazards early, and make safer decisions behind the wheel—because in winter driving, space, patience, and smooth control matter most. Good luck on your road test. #SmartDriveTest #winterdriving #defensivedriving #drivinginsnow #winterstormdriving **************** CHAPTERS 00:00 – Defensive Driving Tips for Deep Snow & Winter Storm Conditions 02:32 – Where Black Ice Forms Most Often in Winter Driving 04:49 – Why Curves, Corners & Turns Cause Winter Loss of Control 07:07 – How to Recover from a Skid on Snow and Ice 09:00 – What to Do During Winter Highway Slowdowns & Traffic Backups 11:53 – How to Measure Safe Following Distance in Winter 12:44 – Key Smart Driving Principles for Staying Safe All Winter *************** SOCIALS www.smartdrivetest.com www.facebook.com/smartdrivetest www.twitter.com/smartdrivetest www.instagram.com/smartdrivetest/ Join the Smart Driver's Mastermind Group: https://goo.gl/h5Q8Vd Music: BoxCat Games Nameless: The Hackers RPG Soundtrack - Epic Song **************** MONETARILY SUPPORTING THE CHANNEL If you wish to support the channel monetarily, you can donate via PayPal here: https://www.paypal.me/smartdrivetest This is appreciated and helps the channel, but please don't feel that it is necessary to be part of the smarter driver community.

    14 min
  8. Why Social Driving Causes Most Traffic Crashes And How to Avoid It

    JAN 29

    Why Social Driving Causes Most Traffic Crashes And How to Avoid It

    • Learn why social driving makes you a BAD driver. The influence of other drivers can make your driving dangerous. SUBSCRIBE TODAY! ►  http://youtube.com/c/smartdrivetest **************** COURSES & CHECKLIST Get My Driver's Test Checklist ► https://www.smartdrivetest.com/ Click for COURSE Package that includes: 1) Pass Driver's Test First Time 2) Defensive Driving Smart 3) Winter Driving Smart https://www.smartdrivetest.com/smarter-driver-course-package/ "GUARANTEED Pass Your Road Test "First Time" Pass Your Road Test First Time Coupon - youtube30 **************** DESCRIPTION Most traffic crashes are not caused by weather, road conditions, or vehicle failure—they're caused by social driving. In this Smart Drive Test podcast episode, Dr. Rick August explains why social driving is the leading cause of traffic collisions, how drivers miscommunicate on the road, and what you can do to protect yourself—especially if you're a new driver or preparing for your driving test. Social driving happens when drivers react emotionally, follow peer behavior instead of road rules, and allow pressure from other drivers to influence their decisions. Honking, tailgating, rushing left turns, and aggressive passing are all examples of social driving—and they dramatically increase crash risk. In this episode, you'll learn: • What social driving really is and why it's so dangerous • Why drivers communicate poorly with other traffic • How to properly measure a 2–3 second following distance • How to stay calm when other drivers honk or pressure you • Whether passing another vehicle is allowed on a driving test • What to do if your brakes freeze in winter conditions • Why winter driving tests can actually be easier for new drivers • Why left turns at busy intersections cause so many collisions If you want to be a safer, smarter driver and pass your driving test the first time, this episode will change the way you think about driving. Good luck on your road test. #SmartDriveTest #socialdriving  #defensivedriving #drivingtesttips #drivingsafety  **************** CHAPTERS 00:00 – Why Social Driving Is the Leading Cause of Traffic Crashes 01:12 – What Is Social Driving? (And Why It's So Dangerous) 03:58 – Why Drivers Communicate So Poorly on the Road 06:58 – How to Measure a Safe 2–3 Second Following Distance 10:37 – How to Stay Calm When Other Drivers Honk or Pressure You 12:30 – What to Do If Your Brakes Freeze (Rare but Important) 19:40 – Why New Drivers Often Pass Their Driving Test More Easily in Winter 20:38 – Why Left Turns at Busy Intersections Are So Complex 22:34 – Why Most Drivers Learn Social Driving From Their Peers *************** SOCIALS www.smartdrivetest.com www.facebook.com/smartdrivetest www.twitter.com/smartdrivetest www.instagram.com/smartdrivetest/ Join the Smart Driver's Mastermind Group: https://goo.gl/h5Q8Vd Music: BoxCat Games Nameless: The Hackers RPG Soundtrack - Epic Song **************** MONETARILY SUPPORTING THE CHANNEL If you wish to support the channel monetarily, you can donate via PayPal here: https://www.paypal.me/smartdrivetest This is appreciated and helps the channel, but please don't feel that it is necessary to be part of the smarter driver community.

    26 min
See All (39)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to the smarter driver podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Rick August. Here, we're going to get you on the road to being a safer, smarter driver. And no…my degree's not in driving. My degree in fact, is in legal history, which many of you know is the study of policing, courts and prisons. My expertise is in policing as it relates to traffic. Here we're going to look at the fundamental conflict of traffic which is: Collisions vs. Congestion And we're going to look at the arena of social driving. The challenges you face as a driver, the challenges you face when getting a license, or starting a career as a truck or bus driver. The car's all gassed up, we're ready to go. Let's get started. With the smarter driver podcast we provide the stepping stones towards your success in driving. We empower you to achieve your goals and aspirations as they relate to getting your first license, becoming a safer, smarter driver, or starting a career as a truck or bus driver. If you're just starting out and working towards getting your first license, be sure to check out the smarter driver course package down in the description. Guaranteed to pass first time. As well, if there's something about driving that really irks you, and you'd like to get it off your chest, please leave a comment. I'm your host, Dr. Rick August. Thanks very much for listening. And remember, pick the best answer not necessarily the right answer. Have a great day, bye now.

Information

  • Creator
    Rick August, PhD
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    39
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2022
  • Show Website
    Smarter Driver Podcast