Top Driving Mistakes You’re Probably Making Without Knowing

Tips From Your Local Driving School to Help You Stay Safe and Confident on the Road

Even experienced drivers can fall into bad habits behind the wheel. These small mistakes may not seem like a big deal at first—but over time, they can lead to dangerous situations, failed road tests, or even fines. At our driving school, we work with students of all experience levels and often spot the same sneaky driving errors again and again.

Here are some of the most common driving mistakes you're probably making without even realizing it—plus tips on how to fix them.

 

1. Rolling Through Stop Signs

It may feel like a quick glance and a slow roll is enough, but the law—and safety—say otherwise. Rolling through a stop sign is illegal and dangerous.
Tip: Always come to a full stop, count to three, and check all directions before moving.

2. Not Using Turn Signals Properly

Forgetting to signal—or signaling too late—is a common oversight. It leaves other drivers guessing your next move, which can lead to accidents.
Tip: Signal at least 100 feet before a turn or lane change, and double-check blind spots.

3. Following Too Closely (Tailgating)

Many drivers don’t realize how little space they leave between themselves and the vehicle ahead. At highway speeds, this mistake gives you almost no reaction time.
Tip: Use the 3-second rule: pick a landmark and make sure three seconds pass before your car reaches it after the car in front.

4. Failing to Check Blind Spots

Relying only on mirrors before changing lanes can leave you vulnerable to missing motorcycles or small vehicles.
Tip: Always do a quick shoulder check to the left or right before changing lanes—even if your mirrors are clear.

5. Speeding Through Yellow Lights

A yellow light is not a signal to speed up—it's a warning that the light is about to turn red.
Tip: If you're approaching an intersection and can safely stop, do so. Only continue through if stopping would be unsafe.

6. Improper Lane Changes

Changing lanes without fully checking surroundings or weaving in and out of traffic is a major no-no.
Tip: Signal, check mirrors, glance over your shoulder, and change lanes smoothly without cutting others off.

7. Driving Distracted

Even quick glances at your phone, GPS, or radio can take your focus off the road.
Tip: Set your GPS and playlist before driving. Keep your phone on silent and out of reach unless you're safely parked.

8. Not Adjusting to Weather Conditions

Rain, fog, and snow require extra caution, but many drivers fail to slow down or increase following distance during bad weather.
Tip: Reduce speed, use headlights, and increase your following distance during any kind of inclement weather.

9. Overconfidence or Complacency

The more comfortable drivers get, the more likely they are to cut corners or ignore basic safety habits.
Tip: Stay alert and drive like you're being tested—because in a way, you are. Every drive matters.

Want to Break Bad Habits and Become a Safer Driver?

Whether you're a new driver or have years behind the wheel, working with a certified instructor can help you fine-tune your driving skills and correct mistakes before they become habits. At our Virginia driving school, we offer personalized lessons, road test prep, and defensive driving courses tailored to your needs.