You get a sense of self reliance that you have never probably felt before and you no longer have to ask others for a lift to wherever you need to go
. Before you start the process of searching for your first car there are many factors to consider before finalising anything.
Aside from the cost of insurance which is always considerably higher for younger drivers, there is also the question of how you are going to maintain it. You may want to opt for a used car as you are likely to get a good deal on price if you find the right car at the right place and can negotiate effectively. The money you could save in comparison to buying new, plus any depreciation you may have suffered, could potentially be put to alternate use.
Consider too that the level of insurance cover you opt for, which might vary depending on whether you go for a new or used car, could help you to make a long term saving.
The make and model of car you go for is important too because you want something that will suit your style and budget as well as being reliable and cost effective to run. Narrow down your choice research those cars on the manufacturer websites and in consumer review sites to see how the company and fellow drivers rate their all round performance.
It is recommended that all young drivers stay away from sports cars, cars which have larger engine sizes and cars that have been enhanced through modification after they have just passed their test. Insurance companies base their premiums on the risk of protecting the customer and as the statistics show that younger and new drivers are involved in a high percentage of road traffic accidents, its no surprise they are penalised with some of the highest insurance premiums.
The skills you are taught when learning to drive should not be ignored as they are taught for a reason. Many drivers develop bad habits once they have passed their test but the longer you can go without developing these bad habits, the safer on the road you will be. Do not make any unnecessary modifications to your car and if you do so, notify the DVLA and your insurance company as this may affect the cover.