Many rookie drivers make rookie mistakes right out of driving school. These errors can occur while preparing for a Sydney driving lessons or while driving with a license but still finding it stressful. Here are 12 of the most common rookie mistakes.
Incorrectly Adjusted Seats
Incorrect car seat positioning may cause hyperextension of the legs and arms, reducing control of the vehicle. Seat positioning is important for comfort, control, and the ability to react to unexpected events on the road. Adjust your seat so that your wrists touch the steering wheel, giving you the best position to control the wheel and reach the pedals.
Not Washing Windows
Even before getting into the car, make sure the windows are clean. Examine your windows for clear visibility. This includes cleaning any streaks or smudges left behind by your wipers.
Not Cleaning And Adjusting Mirrors
Adjust your mirrors properly to get the best estimate of how far away nearby cars are.
While cleaning your windows, check your mirrors for cleanliness and alignment.
Driving With Low Tire Pressure
Modern cars have dashboard tire pressure indicators, including low tire pressure warnings.
Consult your owner’s manual, family or friends, or online videos to learn proper tire inflation. Watching your dashboard
Poor Blind Spot Checks
When changing lanes, make sure your blind spot is clear. This includes checking for cars tailgating or closely following you. Driver education or driving lessons teach most new drivers proper checks. You can check your blind spot by:
• Leaning forward to look in the side mirror. This shows your blind spot.
• Looking behind you. Blindspot mirrors are recommended for cars with small backseat windows.
Acceleration
Almost all new drivers struggle at first with their car’s accelerator. Not knowing the pedal’s sensitivity, you’ll likely press down too hard and too fast. It is best to learn to lightly accelerate while remembering your body’s movements and feelings.
Rapid Braking
The same goes for the brakes. You may initially brake too quickly, causing jolting starts and stops, but you will eventually learn how your car’s brakes work and find the optimal sensitivity.
Forgetting Directions
As you gain experience driving, it is important to remember important streets and directions in your area. To keep track of your travels, use a gps device, car gps, or a smartphone with gps.
Avoiding Intersection Light Times
Changes in traffic lights can cause anxiety in new drivers. Make a note of how long you have until the traffic light in front of you turns yellow. This will help you decide whether to stop at the light or continue driving and pass it.
Inadequate Driving And Parking Practice
Every time you get behind the wheel, you should know the rules of the road. This includes parallel, reverse, and front parking. Knowing the driving and parking rules by heart keeps you and other drivers safe.
Not Monitoring Your Speed
New drivers may become so engrossed in driving that they lose track of time. It is much safer to keep an eye on the posted speed limit. Speeding is dangerous and can result in expensive tickets.
Insufficient Safe Distance
Tailgating is a rude and dangerous way to follow someone. Some drivers have to make hard stops in front of you for many reasons, and tailgating is a surefire way to get you both into a car accident. Keep a safe, comfortable distance from the car in front of you if the car in front has to stop suddenly. This may save both of your lives.
