10 Mistakes by Beginner Drivers and How to Avoid Them

Learning to drive is a big step towards independence and freedom, but it can also be intimidating for beginner drivers. It's important to remember that mistakes are part of the learning process. However, some mistakes can be more dangerous and costly than others.

 In this article, we will discuss 10 common mistakes beginner drivers make and provide tips on how to avoid them. Every Sydney Driving School teaches these tips to their students. So, pay attention and read until the end.

1. Not checking mirrors regularly

One of the most critical aspects of driving is being aware of your surroundings. However, new drivers often forget to check their mirrors regularly, and it leads to dangerous situations.

Checking your mirrors should become a habit which you do every few seconds. It makes you aware of the traffic behind, beside, and in front of you. It's essential to check all three mirrors (rear-view mirror, left and right side mirrors) and your blind spots before making any manoeuvres.

2. Not keeping a safe distance

Maintaining a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you is crucial for preventing accidents. However, new drivers often follow too closely, increasing the risk of a collision.

 The two-second rule is a helpful guideline for maintaining a safe distance. It means leaving a gap of at least two seconds between your vehicle and the one in front of you. You can calculate this by picking an object on the road and counting when the car in front of you passes it. If you reach the same object before counting to two, you follow too closely.

3. Not using turn signals

Using turn signals is crucial to safe driving, but beginner drivers often forget to signal their intentions. It creates confusion and potentially dangerous situations. Hence, remember to use your turn signals before changing lanes, turning, or merging.

This helps other drivers anticipate your actions and lets them know where you are going, reducing the likelihood of a collision. Additionally, signal in advance, giving other drivers enough time to react.

 Even if you do not see any other cars nearby, it's still important to signal to form the habit of using your turn signals consistently.

4. Speeding

Speeding is a common mistake made by beginner drivers. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of driving and forget to monitor your speed. However, driving too fast can be dangerous, reducing the time you have to react to unexpected situations.

Thus, always follow the posted speed limits and adjust your speed to the weather, road conditions, and traffic flow. Remember, arriving safely is more important than arriving quickly.

5. Not practising enough

New drivers need the practice to develop their skills and gain confidence. However, some beginner drivers do not practise enough, which can result in poor driving habits and a lack of experience.

Thus, you need to practice regularly in familiar and unfamiliar environments. It helps to understand the rules of the road better, improve your driving skills, and build confidence. Take advantage of any opportunities to practise with an experienced driving instructor in Sydney to accelerate your learning process. 

6. Not anticipating road hazards

Road hazards, such as potholes, debris, or animals, can cause accidents if you do not anticipate them. However, beginner drivers often don't pay enough attention to the road ahead, increasing their risk of colliding with an obstacle.

To avoid this, scan the road ahead, be aware of potential hazards, adjust your speed accordingly, and stay focused. Defensive driving means being prepared for anything, so stay alert and anticipate hazards before they become a problem.

7. Not adjusting to weather conditions

Weather conditions can significantly impact driving, yet many beginner drivers fail to adjust their driving accordingly.

For example, when it is raining, you must slow down and increase the distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you. Similarly, in icy conditions, driving slowly and using caution is essential.

8. Not using both hands on the wheel

Another common mistake new drivers make is not using both hands on the wheel. Always use both hands on the wheel, with your thumbs resting on the outside of the wheel, at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions.

This will give you better vehicle control and help you react more quickly if needed.

9. Not adjusting the mirrors correctly

Rightly adjusted mirrors are crucial for safe driving. Many beginner drivers fail to adjust their mirrors correctly, leading to blind spots. Adjust your mirrors to have a clear view of the road behind you and minimise your blind spots.

10. Not wearing a seatbelt

Wearing a seatbelt is the law. Always wear your seatbelt, and make sure any passengers in the car do the same. Seatbelts save lives and are one of the most critical safety features in any vehicle.

Final Say

Learning to drive is a significant accomplishment, but one should learn to avoid mistakes that can lead to accidents. By being aware of these 10 mistakes and avoiding them, you will be on your way to becoming a safe and confident driver.

Lastly, you need a reliable and experienced driving instructor in Sydney to become a great driver.

If you are looking for one, make sure you check out Galaxy Driving School. They are one of the best you can learn driving from.