If you are thinking about getting behind the wheel of a pickup truck for the first time, there are a few things you should know. This driving experience will very likely be different than any you have encountered before. You will have to relearn how to back up, turn, and even brake. As you find your footing, follow these tips for driving a pickup truck for the first time.
Go Slow
If you have driven a car but never a pickup, the first change you’ll recognize is the difference in momentum between the two vehicles. A pickup is a heavier beast—one that carries a lot of force. It will take longer for you to decelerate. Make sure you take things slow and brake early. It will make you feel much more in control.
Know Your Blind Spots
Pickups and other oversized vehicles have larger blind spots than sedans. One of the most important safety tips for driving a pickup truck for the first time is to adjust your side view and rearview mirrors so that they match your height. Though it is always important to know what is going on around your vehicle, it can be especially dangerous to overlook your blind spots when you are just starting out.
Be Cautious When Turning
If you are a new driver weighing the qualities of your first pickup purchase, pay extra attention to your vehicle’s turning radius when you test drive it. Pickup trucks need a wider berth than other vehicles due to their larger size. This will be a big adjustment from driving a sedan.
Be Cautious When Reversing
Because of the larger blind spots on pickup trucks, there is a steep learning curve for backing up. It will take some practice to get used to the limited visibility. Practice as much as possible away from other cars before you try reversing in a busy parking lot.
