If you're a new driver, it can be scary to hear the statistics about driving accidents. After all, according to Value Penguin, there's about one car crash every six minutes. However, there are plenty of ways to improve your safety on the road! Here are some tips for new drivers to abide by to avoid having their car sent to an auto body repair company.

1. Follow the Rules and Keep Your Distance

It's important that you, as a new driver, know all the rules and regulations of the road, be they written or unwritten. Pay extra mind to your speed and the distance between you and the cars in front of you so that if they brake, you'll have plenty of time to respond. Follow these rules and you can drastically reduce your chances of ending up visiting the auto shop so soon.

2. Don't Be Tempted to Speed

While this may be a matter of following the rules, it's worth keeping in mind that a lot of drivers are acclimated to driving a bit over the listed speed limit. As a new driver, you need to develop a comfort with how your car reacts to input. It can be far too easy to go faster than you think when you first step on the gas. This can increase the probability that you have an accident, which is something you definitely want to avoid. If you keep an eye on your speed, you'll have a much easier and safer time getting used to driving.

3. Don't Drive Distracted

As a new driver, you might think that you can handle things like texting or talking on the phone while driving. It's just a quick glance up and down, right? You don't want to do that, since it can affect your reflexes, which can then result in a bad accident. Put the distractions down and focus on driving. This includes eating food and applying makeup while in motion. Give yourself all the mental bandwidth you need to keep yourself safe.

4. Get Repairs After an Accident

It's a fact of life that accidents do happen, so when they do, don't wait to get help! Reach out to a reliable auto body repair company in your area to restore your car to its former glory. Even small dings and dents can lead to rust if you don't take care of the problem early on. Whether you need a dent removed or some paint refinished, your local body shop can help.

These are just a few of the things you need to do as a new driver. Other things include not tailgating, being prepared for accidents with a first-aid kit and assistance on call, and not driving in bad weather whenever possible. That said, there still may be times when you get into trouble. If you ever need a local auto body repair company, you can count on Vision Collision to help.