Tips To Pass Your Driving Test
A behind the wheel driving test makes people very anxious, and with good reason. In addition to nitpicking instructors, and the ever-present threat of instant failure you may face the dreaded parallel parking test, depending on where you live. However since around 2015 in Maryland and Virginia, they are not requiring the parallel parking test. If you’re in Washington, D.C., they are requiring parallel parking test as of 2021. Everything is changing constantly so to know the most up to date info on what to prepare for your driving test, check your state’s requirements.
Your own performance is ultimately going to determine whether you leave your driving test with license in hand or are forced to retake it. Furthermore, it will ultimately determine whether or not you practice safe driving habits. It’s always good to drive safely in order to avoid car accidents.
The level to which you’ve prepared is going to have a lot to do with the level of your performance in a test environment. Better prepared student drivers make safer licensed motorists. Your instructor has a civic duty to ensure that everyone who takes their driving test is prepared to follow the rules of the road and shoulder the immense responsibility of operating a motor vehicle. So let’s talk about some tips to pass your driving test.
Where To Seek Professional Help To Pass Your Driving Test
When it comes to learning how to drive, many people think that they can save money by teaching themselves or having a friend or family member teach them. However, this is not always the best idea. There are many benefits to hiring a professional driving instructor, including getting expert instruction and peace of mind. Obtaining the services of a professional driving instructor during your learner’s permit period can be a real difference maker. These instructors generally know about procedures for driving tests in your locality and will be able to ensure you face no surprises on test day. In fact it’s not uncommon for retired police officers to take up driver’s education teaching. Their intimate knowledge of traffic law can be your ace in the hole. Some driving instructors also allow students to use their vehicle for the actual test, which could remove any potential headaches from a failed inspection. Keep in mind that their chosen profession requires a car in perfect working order.
Safe Driving Practice Makes Perfect
You’ve probably heard that practice makes perfect, and this is especially true when it comes to learning to drive. By putting in some extra time behind the wheel before your driving test, you can help ensure that you’re as prepared as possible for the big day. Whether you’re instructed by a professional or simply a friend or family member, it’s imperative that you practice driving regularly. There’s no substitute for behind the wheel time. If highways or even regular streets intimidate you at first, that’s okay. Empty parking lots are an excellent place solidify your fundamentals. If your confidence is shaky on test day you could very well find yourself flustered and making mistakes.
Prepare Accordingly For Your Driving Test
Speaking of fundamentals, let’s not forget that they are the bread and butter of the test. In addition to all the driving you’ll be doing afterwards. Any student driver should make a point of familiarizing themselves with the various controls of their chosen test vehicle. The controls for mirrors, turn signals, and windshield wipers should all be committed to memory well in advance of the test. In addition, it should be a priority to make certain that the test vehicle is in perfect working order. Low windshield wiper fluid, broken turn signals or headlights, or worn tires could derail your test attempt before you even get underway. Being proactive and meticulous will pay dividends on test day.
Don’t Ignore The Little Things
Keep in mind that a driving test is not only assessing your competence when dealing with road signs, stoplights, and the like, but also other drivers. What might seem like an unreasonable degree of caution to the layman driver is often exactly what an instructor will be looking for. Make sure to slow significantly and look for oncoming drivers when passing yield signs. Signal in advance of any and all turns. Come to a complete stop at stop signs and remain there for at least a few seconds, even if there is no traffic coming in any direction. Be sure as well that you are stopping well behind the white line at stop signs and stop lights. Practice break and throttle discipline as well to ensure smooth stops and starts. Many instructors can and will take off points for jerky or sudden accelerations or decelerations.
Keep A Cool Head While Driving
Once again, keep in mind that you are ultimately in control of your own destiny. Despite all appearances to the contrary. Make a point of eating well and getting a good night’s sleep before taking the test. Do everything possible to de-stress and unwind. If you’ve prepared properly, you’re in good hands. If you haven’t, no amount of cramming in the hours before the test will make up for it. Just like any written test, proper prior planning prevents poor performance.
Prepare Yourself So You Don’t Face An Accident
Newly licensed drivers may find themselves uniquely susceptible to car accidents through no fault of their own. According to the Insurance Information Institute, 16 to 20 year old drivers account for almost 8% of all fatalities in car crashes despite only representing 5% of drivers on the road. That’s 3,892 deaths in all and almost 33 deaths for every 100,000 licensed drivers in that age group. That doesn’t even count for the experienced drivers. So, no matter how long you have been driving, don’t be distracted while on the road, do not be under the influence and make sure you are not sleepy behind the wheel. Sometimes even then, you may face a car crash due to someone else’s negligence.
Whether you’re a new driver or one who’s been on the road for years, you shouldn’t have to face a car accident case on your own. If you suffer a car accident in Maryland, Virginia or Washington, D.C. (the DMV area), contact an experienced personal injury attorney to recover the damages you’re entitled to. Here at Malloy Law Offices, we wouldn’t want to leave you in the dark. Find out how much compensation you can recover after a car accident by calling us. Ask and save yourself the trouble of dealing with the insurance company.