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HomeDriver's ResourcesTop 20 mistakes young new drivers make

Young drivers are often inexperienced and may make mistakes that put themselves and others at risk on the road. Here is a list of the top 20 mistakes young drivers make:

  1. Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
  2. Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone while driving
  3. Not checking blind spots before changing lanes or merging
  4. Following too closely or tailgating other vehicles
  5. Ignoring traffic signals and signs
  6. Failing to use turn signals or using them improperly
  7. Improper lane changes or failure to yield the right of way
  8. Not wearing a seatbelt
  9. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  10. Reckless or aggressive driving, such as sudden lane changes or cutting off other drivers
  11. Failing to adjust driving for inclement weather, such as heavy rain or snow
  12. Not properly maintaining the vehicle, such as worn brakes or faulty lights
  13. Failing to check and adjust mirrors before driving
  14. Overreliance on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning
  15. Lack of understanding of the effects of speed and following distance
  16. Failure to properly judge the speed and distance of other vehicles
  17. Improper use of high beams or failure to dim them for oncoming traffic
  18. Not anticipating other drivers’ actions and reactions
  19. Failing to signal for turns or lane changes
  20. Not paying attention to the road, including daydreaming or focusing on passengers instead of driving.

It’s important for young drivers to be aware of these common mistakes and take steps to avoid them in order to stay safe on the road.

What is the #1 cause of death for young drivers?

crash

The leading cause of death among young drivers is car crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among 16- to 20-year-olds, accounting for nearly a third of all deaths in this age group. The risk of motor vehicle crashes is higher among 16- to 19-year-olds than among any other age group, and it’s higher for males than for females. To reduce the risk of crashes, it’s important for young drivers to practice safe driving habits and for parents to set good examples by following traffic laws and using seat belts.

In Canada, the age group with the highest fatality rate in driving is typically younger drivers, particularly those between the ages of 16 and 24. According to Transport Canada, young drivers are over-represented in road crashes and fatalities. This is due in part to factors such as inexperience, risk-taking behavior, and a tendency to engage in distractions while driving, such as texting or talking on the phone. To reduce the risk of crashes and fatalities among young drivers, it’s important for them to receive proper driver training and education, and for parents and other adults to model safe driving behaviors.

In Canada, the age group with the safest driving record is typically middle-aged drivers, particularly those between the ages of 35 and 54. According to Transport Canada, middle-aged drivers have a relatively low risk of involvement in crashes, compared to younger and older drivers. This may be due to a combination of factors, including increased experience, maturity, and attention to traffic laws and safe driving practices.

However, it’s important to note that the relationship between age and safe driving is complex, and can be influenced by a variety of factors, including individual differences, driving behaviors, and environmental conditions. Regardless of age, it’s important for all drivers to follow traffic laws, practice safe driving habits, and remain alert and attentive while on the road.

Yes, in Canada, 16-year-olds have the highest crash rate of any age group. According to Transport Canada, 16-year-olds are over-represented in road crashes, particularly in the first few months after they receive their driver’s license. This is due in part to factors such as inexperience, immaturity, and a tendency to engage in distractions while driving, such as texting or talking on the phone. To reduce the risk of crashes among young drivers, it’s important for them to receive proper driver training and education, and for parents and other adults to model safe driving behaviors.

It’s also worth noting that while 16-year-olds have the highest crash rate of any age group, the risk of crashes decreases as young drivers gain more experience behind the wheel. However, it’s still important for all drivers, regardless of age, to follow traffic laws, practice safe driving habits, and remain alert and attentive while on the road.

About the Author: Valerie D. Hahn

Valerie is an insurance editor, journalist, and business professional at RateLab. She has more than 15 years of experience in personal financial products. She strives to educate readers and ensure that they are properly protected.

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