Top 10 Mistakes Learner Drivers Make in Derby and How to Avoid Them
- MB DRIVING SCHOOL
- Dec 27, 2025
- 3 min read
Learning to drive in Derby can be exciting but also challenging. Many learner drivers face common hurdles that slow their progress or cause unnecessary stress. Recognising these mistakes early helps build confidence and improves driving skills faster. This post highlights the top 10 mistakes learner drivers make in Derby and offers practical tips to fix them.
1. Not Practicing Enough in Different Road Conditions
Many learners stick to familiar routes and avoid challenging conditions like busy roads, roundabouts, or wet weather. This limits their experience and readiness for the driving test.
How to fix it:
Schedule practice sessions in various locations around Derby, including city centre roads, residential areas, and rural routes.
Drive in different weather conditions safely to get used to handling the car.
Ask your instructor to include diverse scenarios in lessons.
2. Poor Observation and Mirror Use
Failing to check mirrors regularly or not scanning the road ahead causes missed hazards and unsafe lane changes.
How to fix it:
Develop a habit of checking mirrors every 5-8 seconds.
Use the “mirror-signal-manoeuvre” routine consistently.
Practice scanning intersections and roundabouts well in advance.
3. Hesitation at Junctions and Roundabouts
Learners often hesitate or stop unnecessarily at junctions and roundabouts, causing confusion for other drivers.
How to fix it:
Learn the right of way rules specific to Derby roads.
Practice approaching roundabouts at a steady speed, looking for gaps.
Build confidence by rehearsing with an instructor or experienced driver.
4. Incorrect Positioning on the Road
Driving too close to the curb, too far left or right, or straddling lanes can be dangerous and may lead to faults during the test.
How to fix it:
Use road markings as guides to position your car correctly.
Practice driving in the centre of your lane.
Ask your instructor for feedback on positioning during lessons.
5. Poor Clutch Control and Stalling
Stalling is a common issue for learners, especially on hills or when starting from rest.
How to fix it:
Practice clutch control in a safe, quiet area.
Learn to find the biting point smoothly.
Use handbrake starts on hills to prevent rolling back.
6. Not Using Signals Properly
Failing to signal or signaling too late confuses other road users and can be dangerous.
How to fix it:
Signal every time you change direction or lane.
Signal early enough to give other drivers time to react.
Cancel signals after completing the manoeuvre.
7. Speeding or Driving Too Slowly
Driving above the speed limit is risky, but driving too slowly can also disrupt traffic flow and frustrate other drivers.
How to fix it:
Always observe speed limits and adjust speed for conditions.
Use the speedometer regularly to monitor your speed.
Practice maintaining a steady, appropriate speed.
8. Failing to Plan Ahead
Learners sometimes focus only on immediate actions and fail to anticipate what’s coming next, leading to last-minute decisions.
How to fix it:
Look ahead at least 12-15 seconds to spot hazards early.
Plan lane changes and turns well in advance.
Use your mirrors and signals to communicate intentions early.
9. Nervousness and Lack of Confidence
Feeling anxious behind the wheel can cause mistakes like overcorrecting, braking too hard, or freezing in tricky situations.
How to fix it:
Practice deep breathing and stay calm during lessons.
Build experience gradually, starting with easy routes.
Remember that mistakes are part of learning.
10. Not Preparing Properly for the Driving Test
Some learners wait until the last minute to prepare for the test, leading to avoidable errors.
How to fix it:
Take mock tests with your instructor to simulate the real exam.
Review the Highway Code and test requirements regularly.
Ensure your car is roadworthy and meets test standards.
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