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Writer's picturesteve johnson

The Top 10 Reasons for Not Passing Your Driving Test

Updated: Sep 21

Driving Instructors in Colchester, Harlow and Clacton know how to avoid them



TOP TEN REASONS NOT TO FAIL
TOP TEN REASONS NOT TO FAIL

Preparing for Your Driving Test in Colchester and Clacton So, you're gearing up for your driving test, perhaps you're taking driving lessons in Colchester or maybe in Clacton. Either way, you're a bundle of nerves, and that's completely normal. Many of the reasons people fail their driving tests are easily avoidable. Let's dive into the top 10 reasons for test failures and how you can dodge these common mistakes.

1. Not Making Effective Observations at Junctions: A Common Mistake in Driving Lessons Near Me


  • The Mistake: Failing to judge the speed of oncoming vehicles or not looking at all.

  • The Fix: Always look both ways and judge the speed of oncoming vehicles accurately. Use the "Look, Assess, Decide, Act" method.

  • How to Avoid: Practise at less busy junctions first. Build up your confidence and always take a second look.

  • LOOK, LOOK, LOOK: I know Quantum Physics.

  • Risk Factors: Stress, mood, distractions, and poor hazard perception can affect your judgement.

  • Mock Tests help prepare.


2. Not Using Mirrors Correctly When Changing Direction: Tips from Clacton Driving School


  • The Mistake: Not using mirrors when exiting a roundabout or changing lanes.

  • The Fix: Use your mirrors before changing lanes or exiting roundabouts.

  • How to Avoid: Make it a habit to check mirrors before any change in direction. It’s like all us ADI’s are professionals and mention MSM now and again!

  • Moving Left? Centre Left mirror check! Moving Right? Centre Right mirror check!

  • Risk Factors: Lack of confidence and mental workload can lead to this mistake.


3. Not Moving Off Safely: What Every Driving Instructor in Colchester Will Tell You


  • The Mistake: Moving off without checking blind spots or making rear observations.

  • The Fix: Always check your blind spots and make rear observations when moving off. I know you’re in a rush to get back to the test centre but LOOK all round and shoulder blind spots!

  • How to Avoid: Practise moving off safely in different road conditions.

  • Risk Factors: Stress, fatigue, and distractions can be your downfall here.


4. Incorrect Positioning When Turning Right at Junctions: A Lesson from Driving Lessons in Clacton


  • The Mistake: Incorrect positioning in lanes when turning right.

  • The Fix: Position your vehicle correctly; don't obstruct traffic or position in the wrong lane. Be VARY aware of one way roads!

  • How to Avoid: Always follow the road markings and be aware of the traffic around you.

  • Risk Factors: Stress, mood, and poor hazard perception can lead to incorrect positioning.


5. Not Having Proper Control of the Steering: A Crucial Aspect of Driving Lessons in Colchester


  • The Mistake: Not steering enough or steering late.

  • The Fix: Steer smoothly and avoid late or insufficient steering.

  • How to Avoid: Practise steering on different types of roads and junctions. Slow down to a controllable speed, make it easy.

  • Risk Factors: Stress, mood, and distractions can affect your steering control.


6. Not Responding Appropriately to Traffic Lights: A Common Issue in Driving Lessons Near Me


  • The Mistake: Failing to stop at a red light or not proceeding at a green light.

  • The Fix: Obey all traffic lights and be prepared to stop when needed.

  • How to Avoid: Always be prepared to stop and ensure the junction is clear before proceeding. Don’t rush the lights!

  • Risk Factors: Lack of attention, stress, and poor hazard perception can lead to mistakes here.


7. Not Responding Correctly to Traffic Signs: Tips from Driving Lessons in Clacton


  • The Mistake: Ignoring or misinterpreting traffic signs.

  • The Fix: Always obey traffic signs, including speed limits and 'no entry' signs.

  • How to Avoid: Familiarise yourself with all traffic signs and their meanings.

  • Risk Factors: Stress, mood, and distractions can make you ignore or misinterpret signs.


8. Poor Positioning on the Road During Normal Driving: A Lesson from Clacton Driving School


  • The Mistake: Driving too close to the kerb or in the wrong lane.

  • The Fix: Maintain a safe distance from the kerb and stay in the correct lane. Use your mirrors (I know your driving instructor never mentions MSM do they? Lol) to check your position.

  • How to Avoid: Always be aware of your road positioning, especially on unfamiliar roads.

  • Risk Factors: Lack of confidence and poor hazard perception can lead to poor positioning.


9. Not Responding Correctly to Road Markings: What Every Driving Instructor in Colchester Will Advise


  • The Mistake: Ignoring direction arrows or straddling lanes.

  • The Fix: Always follow the direction arrows and other road markings. They want you to win!

  • How to Avoid: Practise driving on roads with various types of markings to get used to them.

  • Risk Factors: Stress, mood, and distractions can make you ignore these crucial guides.


10. Not Keeping Control of the Vehicle During Reverse Parking: A Crucial Lesson in Driving Lessons in Colchester


  • The Mistake: Losing control during reverse parking.

  • The Fix: Take your time, don’t just use your mirrors (I know we spend our lessons telling you to look in your mirrors and now you’re glued to them we moan) Keep Effective All Round Observations, and stay in control of the vehicle. Slow and Controlled.

  • How to Avoid: Practise makes perfect. Try parking in different types of bays and spaces.

  • Risk Factors: Stress, mood, and distractions can make this simple task a test-failing mistake.


FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered


How much are driving lessons in Clacton on Sea?

Prices can vary, but you're looking at around £35 to £37.50 per hour. Always call to check with 4 Driving Lessons for the best driving lesson price.


How many lessons does it take to learn to drive?

  • The average is around 45 hours of professional training, plus 22 hours of private practice. But remember, everyone's different.

How much are driving lessons in Colchester?

  • Similar to Clacton, expect to pay between £35 and £37.50 per hour. Again, prices can vary, so do your homework. CONTACT US for the best prices


The Final Lap: You're Almost There!

So there you have it, the top 10 reasons people fail their driving tests and how you can avoid making the same mistakes. Whether you're taking driving lessons in Colchester or Clacton, remember, the key to passing your test is preparation and awareness. For more tips or to book driving lessons, don't hesitate to visit our page.

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