It is not that you can't call yourself a driver after you've passed your driving lessons, however, if you know these nine important automotive safety tips you'll be even better prepared. In fact, most experts agree that it is actually beneficial to take basic and essential driving safety precautions before you even get behind the wheel. After all, anyone can have a car, but only some of us can drive safely.

The first step to keeping your car safe and in good shape is to be aware of any problems that might be occurring with your car. Your vehicle is one of the most vital parts of your personal safety plan. You never know when an accident could happen, so it is important to be ready at all times. Here are nine tips that can help you take good care of your wipers, brakes, fuel system, tires, and other essentials of your car.

Taking Good Care of Your Wipers: When you are taking your car for a drive, look for any signs of water damage or any damage that might be affecting the wipers on your car. If you notice any problem areas, stop your car immediately and get a new set of wipers. A good set of wipers will keep the rain off your windshield while making it much easier to get your car up and running after a snowstorm.

Being Aware of Tire Pressure: As you are driving, always keep an eye on your tire pressure. If your tire pressure falls below the recommended level, immediately stop your car and find out why the tires are going flat. If you keep your tires properly inflated, you won't have to buy new tires quite as often. Keeping your tires properly inflated will also help prevent tire failure, which will save you money and keep your car safe.

A good way to make sure that your airbags are properly deployed is to always be aware of where they are located. If your car has a backup camera installed, look through the viewfinder and pay attention to the sensors so that you can see them in all of their glory. If your car is equipped with automatic seat belts, make sure that you are always buckling up and strap your child into the safety seat properly.

Keep an Eye on Your Steering: If you've had a car for a while, it is likely that your steering will develop a bit of a sloppy feel to it. If you want to avoid a lot of accidents and will need to find a lot of repairs, it's time to put your steering wheel straight. You can do this by installing some new steering-wheel nuts that will give your steering a much smoother feel.

Running Your Car at High Tires Pressure: The failure of a tire is one of the most common causes of mishaps on the road, especially if you are driving at high speeds. The tendency of the tire to blow out can be avoided if you run your car at the right pressure. Even though it may seem counterintuitive, running your car at higher pressures will also help your tires last longer.

Keep an Eye on Your Oil: As your car ages, it becomes more prone to wear and tear. This means that the lubricants and additives in your oil will degrade over time. Check your oil often so that it doesn't dry out and reduces the risk of a leak.