Why Teens Fail Their Driving Test – 7 Common Driving Mistakes

It is not easy for new teen drivers. If you remember what it was like before getting your license, you may recall learning the rules of the road, the measures to safely operate a vehicle and the nerves that came prior to the upcoming DMV driving test.

Some mistakes during the driving test result in an automatic failure and the test must be taken again. Teen drivers must understand the consequences of their mistakes are much higher than anything they have likely ever learned before. Those same mistakes often made on the test are the ones that can cost a life when driving on their own. 

Knowing what types of driving mistakes teens commonly experience can significantly reduce the chances that the new drivers will make them, and fail their test. So, the attorneys of Hupy and Abraham have compiled this list of driving mistakes that teens (and many experienced drivers) make and how to avoid them when they take their test, and after. 

1. Rolling Stops: One of the most common mistakes to avoid during a road test is making incomplete stops. Always come to a full and complete stop behind the stopping line.
    
2. Speed: Stay within the speed limit, even if other drivers are driving faster. Be aware of changes in weather and drops in the speed limit, especially in school zones or work zones. However, avoid being overly careful by driving below the speed limit, which can cause unsafe conditions for yourself and other drivers.
    
3. Improper Lane Changing: When changing lanes, look, turn on signal, check rearview and side mirrors, look for cars, trucks or motorcycles in blind spot, and only when it is clear should you change lanes. Watch for traffic in front of you, and keep your speed up.
    
4. Lack of Steering Control: Don’t be overconfident and drive with one hand. Keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times. Turn using the hand-over-hand method.
    
5. Four-Way Stop Confusion: When you come to an intersection with four stop signs, wait your turn before going. Signal your intentions if you are turning. If two cars arrive at the intersection at the same time, the car to the right goes first.
    
6. Hard Stops & Following Too Close: Give other drivers and yourself time and room to respond. Avoid following other drivers too closely. Leave several car lengths between you and the other vehicle. Except in an emergency, avoid hard breaking which could cause other drivers to rear-end you and cause injuries.
    
7. Not Checking Mirrors: Check mirrors often. It’s important to know where other vehicles are in relation to you even if you are not changing lanes.

The attorneys of Hupy and Abraham hope these tips can help new drivers avoid common driving mistakes on their test, and for years after. There are so many other things new drivers need to be aware of, including not texting and driving and watching out for motorcycles and pedestrians. Click any of the above links to get your new teen driver a bumper sticker to remind them and others to be safer on the road.