Car driving tests are a rite of passage for many people in the United Kingdom. They are designed to ensure that drivers have the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary to drive safely on the road. However, despite the best efforts of examiners and test-takers alike, mistakes are often made during driving tests. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 faults made in car UK driving tests from 2007 to 2022.
- Failure to check mirrors: This is one of the most common mistakes made during driving tests. Many test-takers fail to check their mirrors properly before making a manoeuvre, such as changing lanes or turning. This can lead to dangerous situations, as other road users may not be aware of the test-taker’s intentions.
- Move off control: Constantly stalling the car or stalling the car in a dangerous place.
- Poor speed control: Many test-takers struggle with maintaining the appropriate speed while driving. This can include driving too fast or too slow in certain situations. Speed limits are in place for a reason, and it is important to adhere to them for the safety of all road users.
- Failure to yield: This fault involves failing to give way to other road users when required. This can include failing to yield to oncoming traffic at junctions or failing to give way to pedestrians at a crossing.
- Response to road signs: Not acting appropriately based on road signs or markings on the road.
- Failure to observe traffic lights: This can involve failing to stop or proceed correctly at traffic lights, or failing to notice traffic signals.
- Incorrect positioning on the road: This can involve driving on the wrong side of the road or failing to keep the correct distance from other vehicles.
- Moving off safely: Not checking all required areas – including blindspots – adequately when pulling off from the side of the road; thereby causing another vehicle to alter speed or position to avoid a collision.
- Poor steering control: This can involve failing to keep the car in a safe position or making jerky movements while steering.
- Parallel Parking control: This can mean either hitting the kerb or being unable to park sufficiently close to the kerb within two car spaces of a target vehicle.
It’s important to note that these faults are not limited to the UK driving tests, but they are common faults that are observed during the test.
To avoid making these mistakes, it is essential to study the Highway Code and practice driving with a qualified instructor. It’s also important to stay calm and focused during the test and to be aware of the road and traffic conditions at all times.
In conclusion, driving tests are an important step in becoming a safe and responsible driver. The above mentioned faults are common mistakes made during driving tests, but they can be avoided with proper preparation and practice. Remember, the most important thing is to stay safe on the road, and that is the ultimate goal of the driving test.
For more statistical data, please click https://bit.ly/3X6W3eo which will take you to the GOV.UK website.
