Top 5 most common mistakes made by new drivers

1. Tailgating

Tailgating is when you drive too closely to the vehicle in front, posing a danger to both you and other road users. It’s often misunderstood by new drivers just how long your car’s stopping distances can be, especially in more challenging weather conditions, such as rain or snow.

The Highway Code states you should leave enough space between you and the vehicle in front so that you can pull up safely if the car is to suddenly slow down or stop, remembering that your speed and visibility can also impact your reaction times. If you’re tailgating and the car ahead needs to emergency stop and you go into the back of them, not only can this be extremely dangerous but legally the accident will be considered your fault.

Motorway tailgating risks & fines​

Tailgating on a motorway is treated as driving without due care and attention, carrying a £100 fixed penalty and 3 points on your licence. In more serious cases where accidents occur, the consequences can be much more severe. On top of the physical risk, tailgating can also unsettle other drivers and cause them to panic, which only increases the danger for everyone on the road.

2. Speeding

Speeding is one of the most common mistakes new and young drivers make, and it can often be down to distractions like having friends in the car. Breaking the speed limit is illegal and incredibly dangerous. Speed limits are set based on the road’s design, the surrounding environment and the likely hazards present, so they are there for a reason. Going above them at any time can significantly increase the chances of a serious incident.

National speed limit on motorways for cars​

The national speed limit on motorways is 70mph, making them the fastest roads in the UK. Many young drivers won’t have experienced motorways before passing their test, but they are actually some of the safest roads out there. That said, 70mph isn’t always the right speed on other roads, and if weather conditions deteriorate it’s advised to slow down to a safe speed as stopping distances can increase significantly.

3. Winter preparation

Many new drivers have little experience of winter conditions and the impact they can have is often underestimated. It’s not just visibility that’s affected but winter weather also changes how your car handles. Driving in snow and ice can increase stopping distances by up to 10 times, and in these conditions, it’s often best to avoid driving altogether if you can. As well as this, driving in the rain can create standing water on the roads and can affect your ability to brake safely.

Winter weather driving fines

On top of the added difficulty, there are also fines to be aware of if you don’t prepare your vehicle properly. Here are a few things to avoid this winter:

• Driving with a windscreen that isn’t fully clear of ice or snow
• Leaving your engine running unattended while your car defrosts (known as idling)
• Using your fog lights when visibility doesn’t require them

4. Distractions

Distracted driving is another of the leading causes of accidents among new drivers. As a newly qualified driver, the concentration required behind the wheel hasn’t yet become second nature, so any distraction has a much greater impact on your ability to react to hazards. While phones are the most common cause, things like loud music, passengers and eating/drinking can be just as disruptive.

Phone & smart watch fines

When it comes to technology, the rules are strict and the fines are significant. Using your phone while driving can result in a £200 fine and 6 points on your licence. Smart watches are often overlooked but carry exactly the same punishment if you’re seen interacting with one. The simplest way to avoid this is to put all devices on ‘do not disturb’ before you set off, so you can keep your full attention on the road.

5. Checking mirrors & blind spots

Mirror and blind spot checks are drilled into you throughout your lessons and form a core part of your driving test, but once you’re out on the road alone it’s surprisingly easy to let them slip. The urgency of real traffic, pressure from other drivers and everyday distractions can all lead to checks becoming rushed or skipped altogether. It’s one of the most common ways newly qualified drivers get caught out, and failing to do them can result in serious accidents.

How do I check my blind spots

Checking your blind spot is quick and simple, and it becomes more natural the longer you drive. It’s just a case of a quick glance over your shoulder to check for any traffic your mirrors may have missed, as they can’t cover every angle behind you. The most important times to check your blind spots are when changing lanes on the motorway, pulling away, overtaking, or merging onto any road.