For new drivers, driving requires awareness, caution, and a proactive approach to safety. Unfortunately, many new drivers fall into common traps that can compromise their safety and that of others on the road. Explore here the top five common mistakes new drivers make and strategies from the best driving school to avoid them.
Lack of proper observation
One of the most common mistakes new drivers make is failing to observe their surroundings adequately. This includes not checking blind spots, neglecting to use mirrors effectively, and being unaware of other vehicles, pedestrians, or hazards on the road. To avoid this mistake, practice scanning your environment consistently while driving. Make a habit of checking mirrors every few seconds, glancing over your shoulder before changing lanes or making turns, and remaining vigilant for hazards at all times.
Speeding
Speeding is a prevalent mistake among new drivers, often due to a lack of experience or a desire to reach their destination quickly. However, exceeding the speed limit significantly increases the risk of accidents and reduces the driver’s ability to react to unexpected situations. To prevent this mistake, familiarize yourself with posted speed limits and adhere to them at all times. Allow extra time for your journey, plan your route in advance, and resist the urge to speed, even if you’re running late.
Following too closely
Following other vehicles too closely, also known as tailgating, is a dangerous mistake that new drivers often make, especially on highways or in heavy traffic. Tailgating reduces the driver’s reaction time and increases the risk of rear-end collisions if the vehicle in front suddenly brakes. To avoid this mistake, maintain a safe following distance of at least three seconds between your vehicle and the one ahead. Increase your following distance in adverse weather conditions or when driving at higher speeds to allow for additional stopping distance.
Distracted driving
Distracted driving is a significant concern for drivers of all experience levels, but it’s particularly prevalent among new drivers who may be prone to distractions such as smartphones, passengers, or adjusting music or navigation systems while driving. To prevent this mistake, eliminate distractions before getting behind the wheel. Put your phone on silent or Do Not Disturb mode, secure loose items in the vehicle, and focus your attention solely on the task of driving. If necessary, pull over to a safe location to address any distractions or respond to messages.
