Typical Driving Errors You Probably Don’t Know You’re Making Even experienced drivers can pick up bad habits along the way, and we all have a few that we may or may not notice until they’re close calls or fines. Whether you’re a new learner or have years behind the wheel, it is always worthwhile to brush up on the basics. At DmvEdu.org, we are putting together a list of the most common (and often overlooked) driving errors for which your safety could go at risk in relation to your license. 1. Rolling Stops (otherwise known as California Stops) Not coming to a complete stop at stop signs is one of the things that would top the list of the common mistakes we see drivers make. Many drivers slow down but don’t even pause at the intersection if nothing is coming. However, it is illegal and unsafe. Always come to a complete stop, look for traffic or people, and leave only when it’s safe. Hint: Count to three after you stop, to ensure that you will indeed have a full pause before moving on. 2. Not Using Indicators Properly Signal use is not optional-it’s the only way other drivers and pedestrians know what you’re up to. Remember that if you’re in a low-traffic area, that applies, too: no turning or changing lanes without indicating would most certainly be an affront. What’s worse is probably the one that leaves the signal on after making the turn. Hint: Always give at least five seconds warning before turning or changing lanes with your signals, and turn them off when you’re finished with your maneuver. 3. Incorrect Lane Positioning It is subtle but really dangerous, such as gliding too close to the line of the lane or drifting off the center. An improper lane position will make other drivers fidgety and create a possibility for side-swiping accidents or citations. Hint: Keep your hands steady and eyes looking ahead-not down. This helps maintain a straight path and proper lane discipline. 4. Incorrect Use of Mirrors Mirrors are tools you’ll need, not decorations. Many of them fail to use those effectively when merging, reversing, or overtaking because they rely too much on their own vision and judgment. Hint: Mirror-signal-manoeuvre routine. Check all mirrors regularly, especially before making any lane change or turn. 5. Tailgating
Tailgating: Following too closely again from the back isn’t only a rude act but is also dangerous. It lessens your reaction time, and rear-end collision could result from this. Tip: In normal conditions, keep a 3-second gap with the leading car and more during rainy or foggy weather. 6. Not Adjusting to Weather Conditions Few drivers change their strides in the rain, the fog, or even on frozen land. Those three often dangerous conditions cause drivers to speed, slam to brakes suddenly, or sharp turn onto the road in poor weather. Tip: Reduce speed and viewing distance to increase following distance. Use headlights in poor visibility and always keep a defensive mindset while driving. 7. Too Hard or Late Braking Suddenly bracing on the brakes at the last moment causes quicker brake-pad deterioration, which in turn increases the likelihood of accidents occurring. Tip: Start learning to anticipate your stops and brake in a nice gradual manner. That also will give you a smoother ride using less fuel. 8. Driving with One Hand (or Elbow Out the Window) Albeit relaxing, one-handed — or worse, elbow-out-the-window — driving greatly decreases one’s control of the vehicle and reaction times in emergencies. Tip: One should keep both hands on the wheel at all times, preferably with the hands located at 9 and 3 o’clock for maximum driver control and comfort. 9. Assuming that Other Drivers Act according to Rules One general mistake among drivers is assuming that all other road users would be as cautious or knowledgeable as them, a tendency that is usually a cause to preventable accidents. Tip: Always drive defensively; anything can happen, give yourself time and space to react realistically. 10. Blind Spots Checking Mirrors do not cover everything, though most accidents occur just because someone forgot to look behind himself before merging and turning. Tip: Always check your blind spots manually, especially when changing lanes or merging. Final Thought This requires keeping your awareness in constant track coupled with selfchecks. Even the smallest mistake can lead to grave consequences if left unattended. At DmvEdu.org we help students from the first step to develop
such good habits and encourage well-experienced drivers to go back for refresher lessons to stay sharp and safe on the road. Want to, perhaps, develop your driving skill and get rid of some driving habits? Book a lesson or an assessment with us today!
