1. Speeding or Driving Too Slowly
New drivers often struggle to find the right speed. Some drive too fast to “keep up” with others, while some drive too slowly out of fear.
✅ How to Fix It:
Stick to the posted speed limit and match your speed to road and weather conditions. Remember, going too slow can be just as dangerous as speeding.
2. Following Too Closely (Tailgating)
Many new drivers underestimate how long it takes to stop, especially at higher speeds.
✅ How to Fix It:
Maintain a 3 to 4 second gap between you and the car ahead — and increase that distance in bad weather.
3. Not Checking Blind Spots
Relying only on mirrors can lead to missed vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians in your blind spots.
✅ How to Fix It:
Always shoulder check before changing lanes, merging, or turning.
4. Distracted Driving
Checking your phone, adjusting the radio, or chatting with friends can easily lead to accidents.
✅ How to Fix It:
Keep your focus on the road. Set your music or GPS before driving and put your phone away.
5. Misjudging Gaps in Traffic
Whether turning onto a busy street or merging onto a highway, new drivers often misjudge how much time they have.
✅ How to Fix It:
Practice assessing traffic flow with your driving instructor and gradually build confidence with experience.
6. Poor Lane Positioning
Staying too close to the center line or drifting too far to the shoulder is a common habit for new drivers.
✅ How to Fix It:
Focus on keeping your car centered in your lane and use road markings as a guide.
7. Panicking During Unexpected Situations
Whether it’s a sudden lane closure, a pedestrian stepping out, or another driver cutting you off, panicking can lead to dangerous overreactions.
✅ How to Fix It:
Stay calm. Avoid jerky movements, ease off the gas, and focus on making controlled decisions.
8. Forgetting to Use Turn Signals
It’s easy to forget to signal when you’re focused on making a turn or changing lanes.
✅ How to Fix It:
Make signaling a habit — even in empty parking lots. It keeps you safe and helps other drivers know your intentions.
9. Underestimating Weather Conditions
Snow, rain, and fog all create challenges for new drivers. They often don’t adjust their driving to match the conditions.
✅ How to Fix It:
In bad weather, slow down, increase your following distance, and use headlights appropriately.
10. Not Fully Understanding Traffic Signs
New drivers sometimes miss or misunderstand important traffic signs, especially in unfamiliar areas.
✅ How to Fix It:
Review common signs before driving alone and stay alert for signs when approaching intersections, work zones, or unfamiliar roads.
Final Tip: Confidence Comes with Practice
Making mistakes is part of learning, but being aware of these common errors can help you avoid them. The more you practice — especially with an experienced instructor — the safer and more confident you’ll become.
Want expert guidance to build safer driving habits? Enroll in our driving lessons today!