5 basic mistakes new drivers often make

In fact, there have been many tragic accidents caused by mistaking the accelerator for the brake pedal; especially when switching from manual to automatic transmission. The solution to overcome this is to let your body memorize the position between the accelerator and brake pedals when you first get in the car, and place your heel close to the floor of the car to form a V shape so that the transition from the accelerator to the brake pedal is done quickly and accurately. When moving from a small road to a large road, you should switch to the brake pedal in case a motorbike cuts in front of you.

It takes time for the brain to remember the clutch/gas/brake pedal positions.

2. Forget to pull the handbrake and adjust the mirrors

Adjusting the mirrors is recommended as the most basic operation when just getting in the car, because the appropriate mirror position will provide the most optimal vision for the driver, helping the driver to have a good view around the car and minimize blind spots.

The second thing that new drivers often do is forget to release the handbrake. Letting the brake pads rub against the drum/brake disc will generate heat, causing the brake pads to burn, leading to brake failure. Currently, many new cars have a warning system when the driver forgets to release the handbrake. However, new drivers should practice basic operations to form a habit: adjust the seat, adjust the mirror, fasten the seat belt, release the handbrake... then start using the clutch/gear/accelerator to get the car moving.

3. Do not turn on the turn signal when changing lanes or direction.

Forgetting to turn on the lights or turning on the lights too quickly is an extremely bad habit of new drivers. Changing lanes without signaling can easily endanger your own vehicle and other vehicles on the road. The fine for changing lanes in the wrong place or without signaling is from 300,000 to 400,000 VND.

An accident occurred because the car turned without signaling.

4. Switch between reverse and forward gears when the vehicle has not come to a complete stop

This is a mistake that many “new drivers” often make when driving. Normally, switching between reverse and forward modes is often used when parking in areas with limited space.

Some “new drivers” often have the habit of applying the brakes but before the car has completely stopped, they shift the gear lever from D to R or vice versa to “shorten the time” and “operate more quickly”. However, according to Mr. Quang, if this habit occurs frequently, it will damage the gearbox.

5. Forgetting to turn off the lights and air conditioning system when leaving the car

Many new car users do not have the habit of turning off the air conditioner and lights when leaving the car; if this is repeated for a long time, the battery will be exhausted and other cars will have to help jump start the battery. Therefore, to avoid this situation, before parking the car, the driver should get into the habit of turning off the air conditioner and lights in the car.