Common New Driver Mistakes to Avoid
Mistakes are part of life, especially when you are new to something. However, it is always good if we can stop these mistakes from happening in the first place, especially when it comes to something like driving. After all, an error could be costly. So, let’s take a look at some of the common mistakes new drivers make so that you can avoid them.
- Speeding up at amber lights – We all know that amber lights signal that we should slow down. However, a lot of people use this as an opportunity to speed right through the light so that they avoid being held up. Well, you are only going to be held up for longer if you collide with another car, which could quite easily be the outcome.
- Not maintaining your vehicle – While this is not technically a driving mistake, it can lead to dangerous driving, so it does need to be noted. If you do not maintain your vehicle on a regular basis, you could fail to pick on an issue, which could put your safety at risk, and the safety of anyone else you pass while you are on the road. Plus, the sooner you pick up on any issues, the cheaper they will be to fix.
- Taking unnecessary risks – This is linked to the first point regarding speeding up at amber lights. That is an example of an unnecessary risk. Other unnecessary risks include ignoring road signs and overtaking at locations that are not appropriate.
- Going too fast – This can be very tempting. After all, you have spent months being sat next to a driving instructor whereby you have had to stick to the speed limits religiously. However, the freedom of being in your own vehicle without anyone there can mean that you get a bit carried away. This increased speed can have a big impact on your stopping time, and it can reduce the control you have over your vehicle.
- Letting tyre pressure get too low – A lot of new drivers make this mistake because they are not used to owning their own vehicle. If you let the pressure get too low, it can be incredibly dangerous. Plus, it will make your car a challenge to handle!
- Paying attention to the wrong thing – Some parts of the road are going to be more important than others. For instance, you may fail to notice that you have drifted out of your lane if you are too focused on road signs. Alternatively, you may notice a big pothole until it is too late if you have been looking too far ahead.
If you can avoid the mistakes that have been mentioned above, you will have a much smoother introduction into the world of driving. Nonetheless, the most important piece of advice of them all is to make sure you don’t dwell on any mistakes you have made. The most important thing to do is acknowledge them, learn from them, and then move on.