7 Common Mistakes New Drivers Make—and How to Avoid Them

Learning to drive is a rite of passage, but it doesn’t come without a few bumps along the way. Whether you're a teen driver, a nervous adult behind the wheel for the first time, or a parent guiding your child through driver’s ed, understanding common driving mistakes is the first step toward safer habits.

Here are some of the most frequent missteps new drivers make—and how to correct them:

1. Ignoring Road Signs

When you’re focused on staying in your lane and handling the basics, it’s easy to overlook important signs. But road signs are essential to safe, legal driving.
👉 Tip: Stay alert for speed limits, stop signs, construction warnings, and merging traffic indicators. Reading signs in advance gives you time to react appropriately.

2. Jerky Acceleration or Braking

Sudden stops or quick starts can make passengers uncomfortable and put you at risk for accidents—especially in traffic.
👉 Tip: Ease off the gas and start braking earlier. Smooth transitions help you stay in control and make driving more comfortable for everyone in the car.

3. Confusion at Traffic Lights

Yellow doesn’t always mean “speed up.” And just because the light turns green doesn’t mean it’s safe to go.
👉 Tip: Slow down for yellow lights, and if you come to a stop, wait a beat after the light turns green to ensure the intersection is clear.

4. Forgetting to Check Blind Spots

Mirrors are helpful, but they don’t show the whole picture. Failing to check blind spots is a leading cause of side-swipes and lane-change accidents.
👉 Tip: Always turn your head and glance over your shoulder before changing lanes or merging.

5. Following Too Closely (Tailgating)

Tailgating leaves no room for error. If the car in front of you stops suddenly, you’re at risk of rear-ending them.
👉 Tip: Follow the “3-second rule.” Choose a fixed point on the road ahead and make sure it takes you at least three seconds to reach it after the vehicle in front passes it.

6. Not Using Turn Signals

Failing to use your blinker is one of the easiest ways to cause confusion—and accidents.
👉 Tip: Signal well in advance of your turn or lane change. Communicating clearly with other drivers helps keep everyone safe.

7. Lack of Practice and Patience

Driving takes time and repetition to master. New drivers often feel pressure to “get it right” too quickly.
👉 Tip: Stay patient with yourself (or your student driver). Make time for regular practice in various driving conditions—rain, highway, night, etc.—to build confidence.

Final Thoughts
Mistakes are a natural part of learning, but the right mindset—and a little preparation—can go a long way. Whether you're just starting out or supporting someone who is, keeping these tips in mind will help promote safer roads for everyone.