Are you preparing for your driving test? If so, it’s imperative to be aware of the critical errors that can lead to failure. In the United States, for instance, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that over 39,000 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2020. Of these fatalities, nearly 10,000 involved drivers who had not yet obtained their licenses.
So, what are the most common critical errors that driving test candidates make? Here’s a closer look:
Failure to Yield
Yielding to other vehicles and pedestrians is one of the most important rules of driving. However, many test candidates fail to do so properly. This can lead to accidents, especially at intersections and crosswalks.
Tips to Avoid Failure to Yield Error:
- Always come to a complete stop at stop signs and yield signs.
- Look both ways before entering an intersection or crosswalk.
- Yield to pedestrians who are crossing the street, even if they do not have the right of way.
Speeding
Speeding is another major cause of car accidents. It can reduce your reaction time and make it more difficult to control your vehicle. Even driving slightly over the speed limit can be dangerous.
Tips to Avoid Speeding Error:
- Pay attention to speed limit signs and obey them.
- Be aware of your surroundings and adjust your speed accordingly.
- Slow down when approaching curves, intersections, and crosswalks.
Following Too Closely
Following too closely to the vehicle in front of you can lead to a rear-end collision. This is especially dangerous in stop-and-go traffic or when driving on slippery roads.
Tips to Avoid Following Too Closely Error:
- Leave at least two seconds of following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
- Increase your following distance when driving in bad weather or on slippery roads.
- Be prepared to stop suddenly if the vehicle in front of you does.
Improper Lane Changes
Lane changes can be tricky, especially for new drivers. Failing to signal, checking your blind spots properly, or merging into traffic without enough space can all lead to accidents.
Tips to Avoid Improper Lane Changes Error:
- Always signal before changing lanes.
- Check your mirrors and blind spots before merging into traffic.
- Make sure you have enough space to merge into traffic before doing so.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a major problem that can lead to accidents. Anything that takes your attention away from driving, such as talking on the phone, texting, or eating, can be a distraction.
Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving Error:
- Put your phone away and out of reach while driving.
- Avoid eating or drinking while driving.
- Only talk on the phone if you have a hands-free device.
How to Prepare for Your Driving Test
The best way to prepare for your driving test is to practice as much as possible. Here are a few tips:
- Take driving lessons from a qualified instructor.
- Practice driving in different conditions, such as at night, in bad weather, and on busy roads.
- Be familiar with the routes that you will be tested on.
- Get a good night’s sleep before your test.
Remember: By avoiding these critical errors, you can significantly increase your chances of passing your driving test and becoming a safe and responsible driver.
Additional Resources
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
- AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)