Driving for the first time can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience. It can be difficult for a new driver to navigate through traffic and remember to follow all the rules of the road. With some guidelines, a new driver can avoid common mistakes and become safe and responsible. Here are seven of the most common mistakes that new drivers make during their driving lessons and how to avoid them:
1. Speeding
When you first get behind the wheel, it may be easy to go too fast without realizing it. Speeding is dangerous and illegal. It can lead to severe consequences if caught. To avoid getting pulled over, remember that speed limits are there for your safety and must be followed.
Watch out for speed changes in different areas or on highways. The limit could suddenly drop from 65 mph to 55 mph without warning. Keep an eye out for any signs indicating a change in speed limit.
2. Forgetting Blind Spots
Check your blind spots before changing lanes or merging onto a highway. Failing to do so can result in a collision with another vehicle or pedestrian. This can cause severe injury or even death.
Before changing lanes, check that all your mirrors are clear. Doing so can help you have full visibility of all sides of the car and use them accordingly while driving. Always stay aware of other vehicles around you.
3. Driving Distracted
Distracted driving is one of the most dangerous behaviors on the road because it takes your focus away from driving safely. This includes using your phone while driving, which is illegal, and eating or drinking while behind the wheel. It may also include putting on makeup or fiddling with speakers in your car.
To stay safe on the roads, keep both hands on the wheel. Avoid letting anything take your attention away from driving safely, no matter how tempting it may be.
4. Not Using Turn Signals
Using turn signals is a fundamental safety concept you’ll learn in your driving lessons. It notifies other drivers on the road when you turn or change lanes so they can adjust accordingly. Not using turn signals can cause road confusion and accidents. Use your turn signals even when you cannot see other cars around.
5. Merging Incorrectly
Merging onto highways or busy roads can be intimidating for new drivers, but proper merging can help them stay safe on the road. Before merging, check your blind spots and be aware of how fast other cars are going before entering their traffic lane. Use your turn signal when merging and accelerating slowly but steadily so that faster-moving vehicles don’t leave you behind.
6. Tailgating
It can be easy to forget about leaving enough space between a car and the one in front of you. The general rule of thumb is to leave at least three car lengths between yourself and the vehicle in front of you. You can have enough room for breaking in case something unexpected happens. This helps reduce your chances of rear-ending someone else or being rear-ended.
7. Failing To Yield
Yielding is also needed when approaching intersections or turning at a four-way stop sign. Failing to yield properly can increase your chances of getting into an accident. Check both directions before turning or crossing any intersections, even if there aren’t any cars around.
Avoid Mistakes During Driving Lessons
Driving takes practice and patience, but by understanding the mistakes that new drivers make during their driving lessons, you can be better equipped with the knowledge necessary to stay safe on the road. Avoid potential hazards such as not using turn signals, improper merging, tailgating, and failing to yield properly. Remember these tips next time you hit the road for a safer driving experience.
