Safe2Drive Blog

Most drivers don’t think about vehicle recalls until they receive a notice in the mail. In fact, I recently took my car in for a recall issue from 2024. I know, I know. Life gets busy, especially for families juggling school, work, sports, and everything in between. Unfortunately, putting off a recall repair can mean driving around with a safety issue you may not even realize is there.

That’s why we have Vehicle Safety Recalls Week. Observed March 2-8, it serves as a nationwide reminder for drivers to check for open recalls and take care of them. The campaign is led by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which is the federal agency focused on reducing crashes and improving roadway safety across the country. The message is pretty straight-forward: check your vehicle and fix safety defects before they lead to disaster on the road.

What Is a Vehicle Safety Recall?

A vehicle safety recall is issued when a car, truck, SUV, motorcycle, or even a child safety seat has a defect that affects safety or does not meet federal safety standards. These defects can range from minor issues to serious problems that increase the risk of injury in a crash. Recalls may involve airbags that do not deploy correctly, brakes that wear out too quickly, steering components that can fail, or electrical systems that increase fire risk.

When a recall is issued, the manufacturer is required to fix the problem at no cost to the owner. That means you should not be paying out of pocket for recall-related repairs. Depending on the issue, the repair could be as simple as a software update or as involved as replacing a major component. Either way, the goal is to correct the safety defect and reduce the risk on the road.

Why Checking for Recalls Is So Important

Millions of vehicles on the road today have open recalls that have never been repaired. In many cases, drivers simply do not know there is a problem. If you purchased a used vehicle, moved to a new address, or ignored a notice that came in the mail, it is possible your vehicle has an open recall without you realizing it.

For parents of teen drivers, this is especially important. New drivers are still gaining experience and learning how to respond to unexpected situations. The last thing they need is a preventable mechanical issue that could make a challenging situation worse. Making recall checks part of your regular vehicle maintenance routine is a simple way to add an extra layer of protection for your family.

Even experienced drivers benefit from taking a few minutes to check. Mechanical defects do not always show obvious warning signs, and a vehicle can seem perfectly fine until something fails at the worst possible moment.

How to Check Your Vehicle for a Recall

Checking your vehicle for an open recall is quick and free. All you need is your Vehicle Identification Number, or VIN. This 17-character number can be found on the lower corner of your dashboard on the driver’s side, usually visible through the windshield. It’s also listed on your vehicle registration card and insurance documents.

Once you have your VIN, you can enter it into the recall lookup tool on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website. The search will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that have not yet been repaired. If there’s an open recall, you can contact your local dealership to schedule the repair.

The repair itself is free, and dealerships are required to complete recall work regardless of whether you purchased the vehicle there.

Taking a few minutes to run this check can give you peace of mind before your next commute, road trip, or daily school drop-off.

A Simple Safety Habit Worth Building

We tend to think about vehicle maintenance in terms of oil changes, tire rotations, and brake checks. Adding recall checks to that list makes sense. It doesn’t take long, it doesn’t cost anything, and it can prevent a serious problem down the road.

Vehicle Safety Recalls Week is a good reminder to check your own vehicle, but it is also a great time to remind friends and family members to do the same. If you have a teen driver in your household or a child riding in a car seat, taking this extra step is well worth the effort.

Before you head out on your next drive, take a moment to make sure your vehicle is not subject to an open recall. It’s a small task that can make a huge difference in keeping everyone on the road a little safer.

Interested in learning more about traffic safety?

Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?

Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.

Most drivers don’t think about vehicle recalls until they receive a notice in the mail. In fact, I recently took my car in for a recall issue from 2024. I know, I know. Life gets busy, especially for families juggling school, work, sports, and everything in between. Unfortunately, putting off a recall repair can mean driving around with a safety issue you may not even realize is there.

If you’re trying to figure out how to get a first-time driver license in Indiana, you’re not alone. Many families want clear, step-by-step guides that explain permits, supervised driving hours, and testing requirements. This guide walks through the process from start to finish, answering common questions Indiana families may have.

Before we get into it, here’s a quick checklist that gives you a simple overview of the steps you’ll need to complete before the Indiana BMV will issue a first-time driver license:

• Meet the minimum age requirement
• Apply for and hold a learner’s permit
• Complete required supervised driving hours
• Pass the vision, knowledge, and driving tests
• Bring the right documents to the Indiana BMV

Step 1: Get an Indiana Learner’s Permit

The first step for any new driver is getting a learner’s permit through the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).

• You may apply at age 15 if you’re enrolled in an approved driver education course.
• If you’re not enrolled in driver education, you must be at least 16 years old to apply.
• You must pass a vision screening and a written knowledge test.
• Drivers under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign the application.
• You must bring documents proving identity, lawful status, Social Security number, and Indiana residency.
• Pay the fee. The learner’s permit fee is set by the Indiana BMV.

Once your permit is approved by the BMV, you’re allowed to practice driving with supervision.

Step 2: Complete Supervised Driving Practice

After receiving a learner’s permit, new drivers must gain real-world experience behind the wheel.

• Drivers regardless of age must complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving.
• At least 10 of those hours must take place at night.
• All practice hours must be recorded on Indiana’s official supervised driving log.
• The supervising driver must meet Indiana’s licensing and age requirements.

Completing these hours helps ensure new drivers are prepared for different driving conditions before taking the road test.

Step 3: Apply for a First-Time Driver License

Once the permit holding period and practice requirements are met, drivers can move forward with applying for a license.

• You must hold your learner’s permit for at least 180 days.
• With approved driver education, you may qualify for a probationary license at age 16 years and 90 days.
• Without driver education, you must be at least 16 years and 270 days old.
• You must pass an in-person driving skills test.
• Your supervised driving log and required documents must be presented at the BMV.

After passing the driving test and meeting all requirements, the Indiana BMV can issue your first probationary driver license if you are under age 21. If you are age 21 or older, it is considered a full license.

Indiana BMV Approval

The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles oversees every stage of the licensing process, from issuing learner’s permits to approving road tests and granting driver licenses. All documents, tests, and supervised driving hours must meet BMV standards before you can move from one step to the next.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old do you have to be to get a driver’s license in Indiana?

You must be at least 16 years and 90 days old if you complete driver education, or 16 years and 270 days old if you do not.

How long do you need to hold a learner’s permit in Indiana?

You must hold a learner’s permit for at least 180 days before applying for a driver license. This waiting period gives new drivers time to build experience under supervision.

How many driving hours are required in Indiana for new drivers?

Indiana requires at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 nighttime hours.

Is driver education required in Indiana?

Driver education is not required, but it allows drivers to qualify for a license at a younger age.

Can you take the Indiana driving test online?

No. The driving skills test must be taken in person at a BMV location or through an approved driving school.

What documents are needed to get an Indiana learner’s permit?

You’ll need proof of identity, lawful status, Social Security number, and two Indiana residency documents.

Are there nighttime driving restrictions for new drivers in Indiana?

Yes. Probationary license holders have nighttime and passenger restrictions during the early months.

For the first 180 days after getting a probationary license, a driver may not drive between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. They also may not carry passengers unless there is a licensed driver at least 25 years old in the front seat, a licensed driving instructor, or a spouse who is at least 21. The only exception is that they may transport a child, stepchild, sibling, half-sibling, step-sibling, or spouse without another adult present.

After the first 180 days and until the driver turns 18, additional nighttime limits apply. Probationary drivers may not drive Sunday through Thursday after 11 p.m., or before 5 a.m. the next day. On Friday and Saturday, they may not drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. There are exceptions for driving to and from work, school-sponsored activities, or religious events, or if they are accompanied by a qualified adult. These restrictions stay in place until the driver turns 21.

How much does it cost to get a first-time driver license in Indiana?

Fees vary by permit and license type and are set by the Indiana BMV.

Can parents teach their teen to drive in Indiana?

Yes. Parents who meet Indiana’s requirements may supervise practice driving.

What happens if you fail the Indiana driving test?

If you fail the driving skills test, you must wait 7 days (1 week) before you can take it again. If you fail the driving test three times, you must wait two months from the date of your last failed test before trying again.

What to Do Next

Once you understand how to get a first-time driver license in Indiana, the next step is choosing how you wish to proceed. Many families look into approved driver education programs or additional behind-the-wheel training to help new drivers build confidence and stay safe on the road.

If you’re interested in completing the driver education requirement online, Safe2Drive would love to help! Visit our website to learn more about the course and register today!

If you’re trying to figure out how to get a first-time driver license in Indiana, you’re not alone. Many families want clear, step-by-step guides that explain permits, supervised driving hours, and testing requirements. This guide walks through the process from start to finish, answering common questions Indiana families may have.

Getting your first driver license in Ohio can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Knowing the timeline, requirements, and steps ahead of time makes the process much easier for teens and families. This guide walks you through the process from start to finish and answers the questions Ohio families ask most.

Here’s a simple timeline of the steps you’ll need to complete before the Ohio BMV issues a first-time driver license:

• Meet the minimum age requirement
• Apply for and hold a learner’s permit
• Complete required supervised driving hours
• Pass required tests, including the knowledge, vision, and driving tests
• Submit documents and receive approval from the Ohio BMV

We’ll go into each step in detail.

Step 1: Get an Ohio Learner’s Permit

The first official step is applying for a learner’s permit through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).

• You must be at least 15 years and 6 months old to apply for a learner’s permit.
• You will take a knowledge test and a vision screening at the BMV.
• Drivers under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign the application.
• Bring documents that prove your identity, legal status, Social Security number, and Ohio residency.
• Pay the learner’s permit fee, which is set by the Ohio BMV.

Once your permit is approved, you can start supervised driving practice.

Step 2: Complete Supervised Driving Practice

After receiving a learner’s permit, drivers under age 21 must log practice hours before they are eligible for a license.

• Ohio drivers under age 21 must complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 nighttime hours.
• A parent or guardian, or another licensed adult at least 21 years old, can supervise practice.
• All hours must be recorded on Ohio’s official supervised driving log.

Completing these hours helps new drivers gain experience in different driving conditions and prepares them for the driving test.

Step 3: Apply for a First-Time Driver License

• You must hold your learner’s permit for at least six months before applying for a license if you’re under age 18.
• If you completed driver education, you may be eligible for earlier licensure.
• If you’re under age 21, you must complete an approved Driver Education course, which includes 24 hours of classroom instruction and 8 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction.
• You’ll need to pass an in-person driving skills test, sometimes called the Ohio maneuverability test.
• Bring your supervised driving log (if you’re under age 21) and all required documents to the BMV.

After passing the test and meeting all requirements, the Ohio BMV can issue your first probationary driver license if you’re under 21, or your full license if you are age 21 or older.

Ohio BMV Approval

The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles oversees every step of the licensing process. The BMV approves learner’s permits, verifies supervised driving hours, administers driving tests, and issues licenses. Meeting all BMV requirements ensures a smooth path to licensure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old do you have to be to get a driver’s license in Ohio?

You must be at least 16 years old to receive your probationary driver license, but you must satisfy several requirements to qualify, including holding your permit for at least 6 months, completing an approved Driver Education course (including 24 hours of classroom and 8 hours of behind-the-wheel training), completing 50 hours of supervised driving, and passing the driving skills test.

What is a TIPIC in Ohio?

A TIPIC is a Temporary Instruction Permit Identification Card. It’s issued when you get your learner’s permit and allows you to drive under supervision.

How long must you hold a permit before getting a license in Ohio?

Ohio law requires you to hold a learner’s permit for at least six months before applying for a probationary license if you’re under age 18. There is no set time you must hold you permit before getting a license if you are 18 or older.

How many driving hours are required in Ohio?

You must log at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night, to be eligible for licensure if you’re under age 21. No supervised driving is required for drivers ages 21 and older.

Is driver education mandatory in Ohio?

Driver education is required to get your license if you’re under age 21.

What is the Ohio maneuverability test?

The maneuverability test is an in-person driving exam that evaluates your ability to safely operate a vehicle under real-world conditions. The steps are very similar to parallel parking, but instead of parking between two cars, you’ll need to pass through a set of cones without knocking them over.

Can parents teach driving practice in Ohio?

Yes. Parents or guardians who meet Ohio’s licensing and age requirements may supervise practice driving.

Are there nighttime driving restrictions for teens in Ohio?

Yes. Probationary license holders under age 18 cannot operate a vehicle between midnight and 6 AM during the first 12 months of licensure unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian, driving to or from work with documentation from their employer, or driving to or from an official school-sponsored event or religious event with appropriate documentation from the event official. They may also not drive with more than one non-family member as a passenger unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. After the first 12 months of licensure, there are no passenger restrictions, but they may not drive from 1 - 5 AM unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian, driving to or from work with documentation from their employer, or driving to or from an official school-sponsored event or religious event with appropriate documentation from the event official.

How much does a first-time driver license cost in Ohio?

Fees vary by permit and license type and are set by the Ohio BMV.

What happens if you fail the Ohio driving test?

Drivers under age 21 who fail the test must wait 2 days before retaking it. Drivers age 21 and older who fail their first skills test will be required to take the Ohio Abbreviated Adult course before retaking the driving test.

What to Do Next

Once you understand the Ohio licensing process, the next step is choosing how to prepare. Many families look into driver education programs or additional behind-the-wheel training to help new drivers build confidence and meet all BMV requirements. Completing these courses can make the licensing experience smoother and safer for everyone on the road.

If you’re interested in completing the driver education requirement online, Safe2Drive would love to help! Visit our website to learn more about the course and register today!

Safe2Drive also offers the Abbreviated Adult Driver Training course for residents who are age 21 or older and failed their first attempt at the maneuverability or the road portion of their driving test. You can register for the Ohio Abbreviated Adult Driver Training course now!

Getting your first driver license in Ohio can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Knowing the timeline, requirements, and steps ahead of time makes the process much easier for teens and families. This guide walks you through the process from start to finish and answers the questions Ohio families ask most.

High winds can make driving much more challenging than most new drivers expect. Gusts can push a vehicle sideways, affect steering, and make it harder to maintain control, especially at highway speeds or in open areas. Understanding the risks and taking the right precautions can prevent collisions and make driving in windy conditions safer.

How High Winds Affect Your Vehicle

High winds create forces that can move your car, truck, or SUV unexpectedly. Crosswinds can cause the vehicle to sway, drift out of its lane, or react suddenly when passing large trucks. Even moderate gusts may feel harmless at first but can be amplified on bridges, overpasses, and open roads.

New drivers may not notice these effects until they are actively trying to steer, brake, or maintain lane position. Vehicles with higher profiles, like vans, SUVs, and pickup trucks, are particularly affected because the wind can push them more easily than lower, heavier cars.

Causes, Risks, and Safe Driving Actions

High winds can create multiple challenges for drivers, and understanding them helps new drivers stay safe.

One major cause of difficulty is strong gusts. Sudden bursts of wind can push a vehicle sideways or make it feel like it’s swaying unexpectedly. This is especially noticeable when driving on bridges, overpasses, or open roads with no natural windbreaks. Even a short gust can surprise an inexperienced driver, leading to abrupt steering corrections that can increase the risk of a collision.

Passing large vehicles is another common scenario that can create problems. When you drive next to a semi-truck or bus, the wind flowing around the bigger vehicle can create turbulence, causing your car to jerk or drift slightly in its lane. New drivers often overreact to these movements, which can make the situation worse.

Open areas like flat farmland or highways with few trees and buildings also increase wind effects. Without barriers to block or slow the wind, gusts hit the vehicle directly, and even moderate winds can feel strong. In urban areas, wind tunnels form when wind is funneled between buildings or over bridges. Drivers may not notice the increased speed or force of these gusts until the car suddenly sways.

The risks from high winds include difficulty keeping the vehicle centered in the lane, reduced reaction time, and a greater chance of being pushed toward other vehicles or off the road. High-profile vehicles, like SUVs, vans, and pickup trucks, are particularly vulnerable because their larger surface area makes them easier for the wind to move. But even low-profile cars can be affected in extreme gusts.

There are several safe driving actions that help mitigate these risks. Keeping both hands on the steering wheel improves control and allows for smoother corrections when needed. Slowing down gives you more time to respond to unexpected sways or gusts. Maintaining extra distance behind larger vehicles reduces the impact of turbulence when passing or being passed. New drivers should also stay alert for sudden changes in wind, especially on bridges, overpasses, and open stretches of road.

By understanding the causes, recognizing the risks, and taking practical precautions, new drivers can reduce the likelihood of collisions caused by high winds. Awareness and preparation are the best tools for staying safe when gusts hit unexpectedly.

Wind Speed

You don’t need technical measurements to understand when wind becomes a hazard. Winds that make flags wave strongly, move tree branches, or cause vehicles to sway noticeably should be taken seriously. Moderate gusts may be manageable for experienced drivers, but strong or sustained winds can make even short trips risky. Paying attention to how the wind feels on the road helps everyone make safer decisions about when and how to drive.

When Not to Drive

Some conditions are simply too dangerous for driving in high winds. If gusts are strong enough to move your vehicle, or if storms include debris, falling branches, or low visibility, it’s safer to wait it out. Pulling over in a safe location, like a parking lot or rest area, and waiting it out, is often the best choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to drive in high winds?

Driving in high winds is risky, especially for new drivers. Safety depends on wind strength, vehicle type, and road conditions. Taking precautions can reduce risks, but sometimes it’s best to avoid driving altogether.

How strong is too strong to drive in high winds?

If gusts make your vehicle sway or drift significantly, or if you feel unstable behind the wheel, that’s too strong.

Why do cars sway or drift in strong winds?

Crosswinds push against the side of the car, causing it to move sideways or feel unstable. Large vehicles like SUVs or trucks are more affected because they have bigger surfaces for the wind to push against.

Are high winds more dangerous for new drivers?

Yes. New drivers may overreact, underreact, or fail to anticipate gusts. Limited experience with steering adjustments and lane control increases the risk of collisions.

Which vehicles are most affected by high winds?

High-profile vehicles such as vans, SUVs, pickup trucks, and trailers are most affected. Low cars are generally more stable, but all vehicles can sway in strong gusts.

How should you steer when driving in strong crosswinds?

Keep both hands on the wheel and steer gently into the gust to maintain lane position. Avoid overcorrecting, which can cause sudden swerving or loss of control.

When should drivers pull over in high winds?

If the wind pushes your vehicle unexpectedly, reduces visibility, or creates hazardous conditions, pull over to a safe area and wait until it subsides.

Do high winds make highway driving more dangerous?

Yes. The combination of high speeds, open exposure, and passing trucks amplifies wind effects. Slower, controlled speeds can improve stability.

What should new drivers do before driving in high winds?

Check weather forecasts, secure loose items in or on the vehicle, plan an alternate route if needed, and make sure your tires and brakes are in good condition.

Can high winds cause car collisions?

Yes. Gusts that sway or push a vehicle unexpectedly can lead to lane departures, crashes with other vehicles, or collisions with roadside objects. Being prepared and cautious is key to preventing these situations.

What to Do Next

Driving in high winds is one of many challenging winter conditions new drivers face. Completing a driving safety course can help teens and new drivers learn how to handle gusty conditions, icy roads, and other seasonal hazards. These skills reduce the risk of collisions and build confidence behind the wheel.

Interested in learning more about traffic safety?

Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?

Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.

High winds can make driving much more challenging than most new drivers expect. Gusts can push a vehicle sideways, affect steering, and make it harder to maintain control, especially at highway speeds or in open areas. Understanding the risks and taking the right precautions can prevent collisions and make driving in windy conditions safer.