What you learned in driver’s ed years ago may not match how modern cars and roads actually work. Technology has changed how vehicles handle, how traffic flows, and even what “safe driving” looks like. Here’s a look at a few old rules that you no longer need to strictly follow when travelling in a car, and what you should do instead.
1. Warming Up the Engine Isn’t Necessary
Modern gasoline and diesel engines with electronic fuel injection and computer-controlled ignition systems do not need long warm-up periods. Letting the vehicle idle for several minutes wastes fuel, increases emissions and can actually allow moisture to build up in the exhaust system. Start the engine, wait about 30 seconds to let oil circulate, then drive gently at moderate speeds until operating temperature is reached. During that warm-up drive avoid heavy throttle and high RPMs, and don’t count on idling to remove frost from windows; use the defroster and clear visibility by mechanical means. For specific guidance follow your owner’s manual, which reflects the manufacturer’s recommended procedure for your model and climate.
2. Rethink the “10 and 2” Grip
The traditional 10 and 2 hand placement dates to older steering systems and predates modern airbags. When an airbag inflates with great force, having hands high on the wheel can result in wrist or arm injuries and can force hands into the driver’s face. Placing hands at 9 and 3, or lower at 8 and 4 if more comfortable, keeps arms out of the airbag’s deployment path and improves leverage with today’s electric power steering. Use a relaxed grip, keep thumbs on the outside of the rim rather than tucked underneath, and use push-pull steering for controlled maneuvers on turns and emergency corrections.
3. The 3,000-Mile Oil Change Rule
Advances in engine design and lubricant chemistry mean most modern vehicles can safely go far beyond 3,000 miles between oil changes. Synthetic motor oils, better filtration, tighter tolerances and onboard sensors extend service intervals, often to 5,000, 7,500 or even 10,000 miles depending on driving conditions and oil type. Heavy towing, frequent short trips, idling in stop-and-go traffic and dusty environments still demand more frequent checks. Inspect oil level regularly, look for discoloration or metal particles, and adhere to the schedule recommended in the owner’s manual or by the manufacturer’s maintenance minder system.
4. One Foot, Not Two
Operating an automatic transmission with one foot on the accelerator and the other on the brake increases the risk of pressing both pedals at once and creates inconsistent pedal feel. That doubles the chance of unintended braking or poor response during sudden events. Training and road-safety organizations recommend keeping your left foot idle and using the right foot for both acceleration and braking. This single-foot technique promotes consistent response, reduces the likelihood of pedal misapplication, and simplifies muscle memory during panic stops or quick lane corrections. Practice smooth transitions and avoid sudden stomps on either pedal.
5. The Left Lane Isn’t Just a “Passing Lane” Anymore
The left lane is commonly described as a passing lane, but how it is used depends on local laws and traffic patterns. Many jurisdictions enforce keep-right-unless-passing rules, while other places allow travel in the left lane when traffic flow makes it sensible. On multi-lane highways use the left lane to pass slower vehicles, but if traffic is heavy and you are impeding faster vehicles behind you, safely move right when you can. Pay attention to signage, follow state-specific lane discipline rules, and be courteous to reduce road friction and prevent aggressive driving behaviors.
6. Stop Signs: Focus on Awareness, Not Counting Seconds
A legal stop at a stop sign means the vehicle comes to a complete halt, with wheels stopped, before the driver proceeds. The old “count three seconds” habit misses the point; a proper stop is about position and observation rather than a fixed delay. After stopping, look left, right and forward, check for bicyclists and pedestrians, and be aware of sightline obstructions such as parked cars or hedges. Proceed only when the intersection is clear. In four-way stops follow right-of-way rules and communicate intent with eye contact or hand signals when necessary.
7. Turn Signals on Highway Exits
Using your turn signal well before exiting a highway or changing lanes is essential for predictable, safe traffic movement. Signaling late gives other drivers little time to react, creates sudden lane shifts and increases crash risk. Aim to indicate your intention at least three to five seconds before the maneuver in typical highway speeds, or earlier if traffic is heavy. Signals are not optional courtesy devices; they are a primary method of communicating with other road users. In addition to signaling, check mirrors and blind spots and change lanes smoothly rather than cutting across multiple lanes at once.
8. Flashing Headlights: Know the Law
Flashing headlights is used by drivers for several reasons, including warning of hazards, indicating intention to pass or signaling to oncoming traffic about speed enforcement. Legal treatment varies widely by state and municipality; some places allow it, some have laws limiting its use, and some interpret persistent flashing as improper signaling. Use short, clear flashes only for immediate safety reasons, such as alerting others to an obstacle or very poor visibility. Avoid using headlights to encourage unsafe maneuvers or to obstruct other drivers, and familiarize yourself with local traffic codes before relying on this form of nonverbal communication.
9. Pedestrian Right-of-Way Has Evolved
Cities and planners have shifted toward designs that prioritize pedestrians and reduce vehicle dominance in shared spaces. Drivers are increasingly required to yield to pedestrians at marked crosswalks, and in many places courtesy and safety laws extend that duty in unmarked crossings and pedestrian zones. Reduce speed in school and shopping areas, scan for crossing pedestrians before turning, and expect people to appear from between parked cars. Pedestrian detection systems in modern vehicles help, but they do not replace attentive driving. When in doubt yield the right-of-way and avoid risky maneuvers that could endanger someone on foot.
10. Interior Car Lights Aren’t Illegal
Turning on the dome light while driving is not universally illegal, though it can temporarily reduce your night vision and cause glare that affects the driver’s ability to see outside. There is no federal ban on cabin lights, and state laws typically focus on overt impairments to safe driving rather than the mere use of an interior lamp. Use interior lighting briefly when necessary for quick tasks like finding a map or reading a label, but switch it off once you are back to driving conditions that demand full exterior visibility. Minimize phone interactions and other in-car distractions along with cabin lights.
