Many new drivers find going into a petrol pump to be a fairly straightforward process. But when there are numerous people using a fuel station, the situation becomes far more difficult than it appears. At any given moment, there will be cars entering and exiting the area; some two-wheeled vehicles may suddenly emerge from where you least expect them; and pedestrians may also be walking within close proximity to moving vehicles.
Imagine driving through a busy section of a big Indian city and right next to the main road is a petrol pump. The smallest mistake you make can land you in trouble.Learning how to safely get in and out of a petrol pump can help you avoid having a collision, protect pedestrians and feel more confident in controlling your vehicle.
How to enter Petrol Pump safely
Slow down and watch for “in” and “out” signs when approaching a gas station. Do not swerve out of your lane while being followed closely by other cars. Look in your rearview mirror, turn on your signal light, and pull into the station only if there’s no oncoming traffic.
Be aware of all types of traffic near the entrance. You might see a motorcyclist leave the fuel station as well as another vehicle waiting to enter. Additionally, pedestrians may walk across the entrance area without being aware of other vehicles approaching them. Therefore, you should maintain a slow speed and be ready to stop should anyone move into your driving line.
If there is too much traffic at the entrance, please do not squeeze yourself through. Wait until there is sufficient room to enter, instead of causing a backup on the primary roadway, or forcing yourself into the narrow spaces between other vehicles.
Choose the Correct Fuel Lane
Once you are inside the gas station, follow the directions of the traffic and the instructions provided by the staff. Prior to going toward a pump, find out what side your vehicle’s fuel tank is located on. Knowing this will help you select the most appropriate location for your car without having to turn around multiple times or reverse in a very busy space.
Move at a slow pace, while leaving a reasonable amount of distance from the vehicle directly in front of you. Try not to use the brakes quickly or switch lanes rapidly, unless you have checked your blind spots. When deciding upon a parking spot, do not make an immediate decision if you do not know where to go. Rather, request assistance from the attendant.
When beginning to drive through a busy gas station, both good clutch control and smooth braking can be very helpful for those who are just learning.
Follow Safety Rules While Refuelling
After parking your vehicle next to the gas pump, come to a complete stop, set your parking brake and shut off your engine. Follow all of the attendants directions during the refueling process.
Keep fire away from gas pumps; avoid moving your car when it is filling up; keep kids safe from other moving vehicles and equipment; and stay alert for people who may walk past your car.
In addition to avoiding unnecessary distractions, avoiding unnecessary distractions can be a smart move. When you focus on checking your phone or making a payment while other cars are driving in front of you, it will cause you to be less aware of what is happening around you.
How to Exit a Petrol Pump Safely
When you leave a petrol station, you should give as much consideration to the safety of others as you did when you entered. Prior to moving your vehicle, use your mirrors to see if there are any pedestrians, motorcycles, bicycles or other cars that may cross into your line of travel.
Signal when you want to change lanes, however, remember that signalling will not automatically provide the right of way. If there is other traffic on the main road you are about to enter, stop and allow time for a safe opening so that you may enter the main road.
Check for blind spots, especially for other vehicles (like motorcycles) which might be riding alongside you. Start driving slowly and do not accelerate too fast. Wait until you have a good view of the street ahead if it’s difficult to see, or if the traffic is very congested, before moving out into the street.
Never drive backward toward an exit unless you check what’s going on behind your vehicle. When correcting your position, move slowly and ensure there are no obstacles in your way.
Common Mistakes New Drivers Should Avoid
Beginning drivers are often so focused on driving that they don’t look in their rearview mirror and/or blind spot. Also, many beginning drivers will steer the car too far left/right, tailgate the car in front of them, and/or attempt to pull away from the gas pump prior to all other traffic clearing.
The most frequent error in judgment made by many people is to assume that other road users will always stop. However, as is well known, the behavior of both drivers and pedestrians can be highly unpredictable. By remaining aware and giving yourself ample room to move, you will have more opportunity to react appropriately.
When you are behind the wheel, try not to use your horn or rush. Driving in a calm and controlled manner is much safer than attempting to shave off some time.
Improve Your Everyday Driving Skills
Learning how to become a confident driver goes beyond just being able to steer the car down the highway. There are many everyday occurrences that will help build confidence when driving. For example, some of these everyday occurrences include entering a service station, finding parking in a crowded parking lot, and merging with traffic. These types of experiences will allow for you to learn from your mistakes and grow as a driver.
As you continue practicing your driving, you will find yourself better able to control the clutch, apply pressure to the brakes, check your mirrors, and stay aware of other drivers around you. By taking practical driving lessons from Drivex Motor Driving School, you will gain experience and confidence in being able to handle real world traffic situations.
Final Thoughts
Every driver in India can benefit from knowing how to enter and leave a gas station safely. Prior to turning into the gas station, slow down. Use the proper lane when entering. Turn off your car’s engine while you fill up on fuel. Before you exit, make sure there isn’t any oncoming traffic.
The most critical thing is to take your time. Those additional moments you spend checking out your surrounding area will lower the risk of having an accident, and provide a safer environment for each of your visits to the gasoline station.
