15/09/2019
Want to pass the ?
Have a look at the top 10 reasons and work on these.
1. Observations at junctions
Poor observations at junctions is one of the top 10 reasons that people are unsuccessful on passing the driving test.
You’ll be marked for not taking effective observations emerging at junctions/roundabouts. Always make sure it’s safe by taking effective observations before proceeding.
2. Moving off safely
When you’re moving off from the side of the road, you need to make sure you take all round effective observations and check blind spots - and that you have the correct signal on i.e right for moving off from the near side (left) of the road.
3. Use of mirrors
Remember that you need to use your rear view and door mirrors effectively and react to the information seen in the mirrors whether you are slowing down, changing direction, signaling or changing speed.
People don’t often check the mirrors for pulling up, increasing their speed, changing lanes, exiting roundabouts or using their mirrors too late and not reacting to the information in the mirrors.
4. Reverse parking
You can be asked to either do a reverse park on the road, or reverse into a parking bay, you need to carry out effective observations and finishing the exercise under control.
5. Response to traffic lights
Need to respond correctly to traffic lights. Some of the mistakes that pupils make include waiting at a green filter light when it’s safe to proceed and staying at the stop line when it’s safe to move. Other faults that count include not conforming to a red light, and stopping beyond an advanced stop line in the area designated for cyclists.
6. Steering
You need to be able to maintain a steady course in normal driving. Things like mounting and dismounting the kerb, and not following the contour of the kerb results in faults in this area.
7. Positioning
Your vehicle should be positioned correctly for the route you’re taking. Avoid straddling lanes and drive in your normal driving position when on dual Carriageways etc.
8. Turning right at junctions
When you’re turning right, position your vehicle correctly - it shouldn’t cut the corner when turning right. Also, watch out for cyclists and motorcyclists, and any pedestrians crossing the road.
9. Control when moving off
Repeated stalling is one of the things that counts as control when moving off. Other things that are included in this reason are moving off (or trying to!) with the handbrake on, rolling backwards when trying to move off.
10. Response to road markings
And finally… look out for road markings.
You’ll be marked with faults in this area for doing things like unnecessarily crossing the solid white centre lines on the road, and not following directional arrows etc etc to name a few. So make sure you know the rules about using them.
Prepare to pass
It’s normal to be nervous before your test, but if you’re properly prepared and your instructor thinks you’re ready, then there’s really no reason to worry.
On average, pupils who pass the test have had 45 hours of driving lessons and 22 hours of private practice.
Your examiner’s not trying to catch you out; they just want to make sure that you can drive safely.
