Learning to drive can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to mastering all the skills needed to pass your driving test. During your lessons, it’s natural to make mistakes – after all, that’s how you learn. However, understanding and avoiding common driving mistakes can speed up your progress and help you build confidence on the road.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most common mistakes learners make during their driving lessons and offer practical advice on how to avoid them. Whether you’re learning to drive in Bristol or anywhere else, these tips will help you become a safer, more competent driver.
1. Not Checking Your Mirrors Enough
One of the most frequent mistakes learners make during driving lessons is failing to check their mirrors regularly. Proper mirror use is essential for driving safely, as it helps you stay aware of what’s happening around you. Failing to check mirrors can result in dangerous situations, such as not seeing a car in your blind spot when changing lanes or missing a cyclist approaching from behind.
- How to Avoid This Mistake:
Make it a habit to check your mirrors frequently, especially before changing lanes, turning, or slowing down. Use the Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine to remind yourself of the correct process. For example, when approaching busy junctions like those found on Bristol’s Ring Road, always check your mirrors before making any manoeuvres. - Tip:
Turn your head slightly when checking your mirrors to show the examiner that you’re paying attention to your surroundings.
2. Poor Clutch Control and Stalling
Another common issue learners face is stalling, particularly during hill starts or when stopping at junctions. Stalling usually happens due to poor clutch control, where learners don’t coordinate the clutch and accelerator properly.
- How to Avoid This Mistake:
The key to improving clutch control is practice. Spend time with your instructor practising smooth starts and stops, paying special attention to the biting point of the clutch. When preparing to move off, ease the clutch up slowly while gently pressing the accelerator to avoid stalling. - Tip:
In hilly areas like parts of Earlsdon or Kenilworth, focus on hill starts with your handbrake engaged. This gives you extra control and reduces the risk of rolling back or stalling.
3. Not Observing Properly at Junctions
Approaching junctions can be tricky, and many learners struggle with making the right observations. Failing to check for oncoming traffic, pedestrians, or cyclists can lead to accidents, which is why it’s crucial to make sure you’re looking in all directions before proceeding.
- How to Avoid This Mistake:
When approaching a junction, slow down and give yourself plenty of time to assess the situation. Look both ways and check your mirrors before pulling out. If you’re unsure whether it’s safe to proceed, wait until the road is clear. Junctions near Bristol’s busy areas, such as London Road or Foleshill Road, often require extra caution. - Tip:
Practise with your instructor at quieter times of the day to build confidence before tackling busier junctions.
4. Speeding or Driving Too Slowly
Maintaining the correct speed for the road conditions is another common area where learners make mistakes. Some learners drive too slowly because they’re nervous, while others may unintentionally exceed the speed limit, especially when transitioning between different zones.
- How to Avoid This Mistake:
Stay aware of speed limit signs and adjust your speed accordingly. If you’re driving in a 30 mph zone, make sure you’re close to that speed unless conditions, like heavy traffic or weather, require slower driving. Conversely, don’t go too fast, particularly in residential or school zones where pedestrians are more likely to cross. - Tip:
Bristol has several roads with variable speed limits, such as the A45 and A444, so it’s important to keep an eye on changing speed signs to ensure you’re driving safely.
5. Poor Lane Discipline
Another common mistake learners make is drifting between lanes or not staying centred in their lane, particularly when negotiating roundabouts or dual carriageways. Poor lane discipline can confuse other drivers and increase the risk of accidents.
- How to Avoid This Mistake:
Always be aware of your lane position, especially on roundabouts and multi-lane roads. Practise lane changes with your instructor, using your mirrors and indicators to signal your intentions clearly. Staying within your lane is critical on Bristol’s busier roads, such as the A46 or the A4053 Ring Road, where traffic flow can be heavy. - Tip:
Don’t rush lane changes or roundabouts. Take your time, check your mirrors, and ensure it’s safe before moving across lanes.
6. Failing to Use the Handbrake When Necessary
Many learners forget to use the handbrake when it’s necessary, such as when stopped at traffic lights or on a steep hill. Not using the handbrake can cause your car to roll back, leading to dangerous situations, particularly on hills.
- How to Avoid This Mistake:
Get into the habit of applying the handbrake when you come to a full stop, especially on an incline. Practise using it with your instructor until it becomes second nature, particularly in areas with slopes or uneven terrain, like parts of Finham or Allesley.
Final Thoughts
Making mistakes during driving lessons is a natural part of learning, but being aware of common errors and how to avoid them will help you progress more quickly. Whether it’s improving your clutch control, mastering lane discipline, or keeping a close eye on your mirrors, regular practice and focus will build your confidence and make you a better, safer driver in Bristol.
