Top 10 Most Common Mistakes to Avoid on Your Driver's Test

Summary

This video script educates viewers on the top 10 reasons for accumulating demerit points during a driver's test, aiming to help them pass on their first attempt. Key points include the importance of shoulder checking, understanding stop signs, correct stopping positions, proper lane changes, signaling, maintaining safe distances, correct lane positioning, turning techniques, appropriate speed, and using the rear window for reversing. The script also promotes a driver training course to enhance safety and test success.

Takeaways

• 👀 Shoulder check twice or thrice for every turn and when moving sideways to avoid accumulating demerit points.
• 🚦 Understand the difference between four-way and two-way stop signs to navigate intersections correctly.
• 🛑 Know the correct stopping position at controlled intersections to prevent demerits.
• 🔄 Perform a minimum of two shoulder checks during lane changes to ensure safety and avoid penalties.
• 📡 Always signal your intentions when turning or moving sideways to communicate your actions to other drivers.
• 🚗 Maintain a safe following distance and avoid following too closely in queues to prevent demerits.
• 🛣️ Position your vehicle correctly in lanes to avoid incorrect lane positioning penalties.
• 🔄 Ensure correct positioning when turning to avoid demerits and ensure smooth traffic flow.
• 🚦 Avoid blocking crosswalks while waiting at intersections to prevent accumulating demerit points.
• 🏎 Don't drive too slowly; maintain appropriate speed to avoid major demerits on your driver's test.
• 👁️‍🗨️ For slow speed maneuvers like backing, look out the rear window primarily, not just rely on mirrors or cameras.

Q & A

What is the first reason mentioned in the script for accumulating demerit points during a driver's test?

The first reason is not shoulder checking when turning or moving the vehicle sideways.

How many times should a driver shoulder check for every turn during a driver's test?

A driver should shoulder check at least two times for every turn, and possibly three times if they are at the corner for an extended period.

What is the difference between a four-way stop and a two-way stop intersection as per the script?

At a four-way stop, the first person to arrive goes, followed by the person on the right, and then straight through traffic has priority over turning traffic, and right turning traffic over left turning traffic. At a two-way stop, the major road has priority over the minor road, with the same priority rules for straight and turning traffic.

Why is knowing the correct stopping position at controlled intersections important for a driver's test?

Knowing the correct stopping position, which is before the stop line or crosswalk line, or at the edge of the road where two roads meet, is crucial to avoid accumulating demerit points.

What is the proper procedure for changing lanes without accumulating demerit points?

The proper procedure is to check the mirror, signal, perform two shoulder checks, ensure the way is clear, and then move over.

Why is signaling important even in parking lots during a driver's test?

Signaling is important in parking lots because failing to signal when turning or moving sideways can result in demerit points.

What is the recommended following distance behind a vehicle during a driver's test?

The recommended following distance is to maintain a 2-3 second gap behind the vehicle in front to avoid accumulating demerit points for following too closely.

How does incorrect lane positioning lead to demerit points on a driver's test?

Incorrect lane positioning occurs when a driver is too close to parked cars or not centered in their lane, which can lead to accumulating demerit points.

What is the correct position for a driver when making a right-hand turn to avoid demerit points?

For a right-hand turn, the correct position is to be on the right side of the lane, and for a left-hand turn, to be to the left side of the lane.

Why is looking out the rear window important during slow speed maneuvers like backing?

Looking out the rear window is crucial for backing and other slow speed maneuvers because relying solely on mirrors or a backup camera can lead to major demerit points.

What is the bonus tip for not accumulating demerit points on a driver's test regarding steering wheel control?

The bonus tip is to keep both hands on the steering wheel for the duration of the test, as driving with one hand can lead to failure.

Outlines

00:00

🚗 Top 10 Reasons for Accumulating Demerit Points During a Driver's Test

This paragraph discusses the top 10 reasons why a driver might fail their driver's test or accumulate demerit points. The first reason is the lack of shoulder checking when turning or moving the vehicle sideways, emphasizing the need for at least two shoulder checks for every turn. The second reason involves confusion between four-way and two-way stop signs and the proper protocols for each. The third reason is not knowing the correct stopping position at controlled intersections. The fourth reason is inadequate shoulder checks during lane changes, which should involve at least two checks. The video also mentions a course package designed to help drivers pass their test on the first attempt and includes additional courses on defensive and winter driving.

05:01

🚦 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Demerits in Driving Tests

Paragraph two continues the list of reasons for accumulating demerit points, starting with not signaling when turning or moving sideways, especially in parking lots. It also covers following too closely, which requires maintaining a 2-3 second following distance and being able to see the tires of the vehicle in front making contact with the pavement. Incorrect lane positioning, such as staying too close to parked cars or not moving over for a right turn, is also highlighted. The paragraph explains the importance of staying in the center of the lane and the correct position when turning to avoid demerits. It also touches on the need to avoid being too slow, which can lead to major demerits or failure, and the importance of looking out the rear window for slow-speed maneuvers rather than relying solely on mirrors or backup cameras.

10:01

👋 Final Tips for a Successful Driver's Test

The final paragraph offers a bonus tip for not accumulating demerits: keeping both hands on the steering wheel throughout the test. It humorously points out that driving with one hand, as seen in movies, will not pass the test. The paragraph concludes with encouragement to pick the best answer on the test and a reminder to check out the Smarter Driver Course package that guarantees passing the driver's test on the first attempt, ensuring a great day ahead.

Keywords

💡Demerit Points

Demerit points are penalties assigned to a driver's record for committing traffic violations. In the context of the video, accumulating demerit points can lead to failing a driver's test. The script emphasizes the importance of avoiding these points to pass the test, such as by performing shoulder checks and understanding traffic signs, which are directly related to the accumulation of demerit points.

💡Shoulder Check

A shoulder check is a safety maneuver where a driver turns their head and looks over their shoulder to check for vehicles or obstacles in their blind spot. The video script repeatedly stresses the necessity of shoulder checking twice for every turn to ensure safety and to pass the driver's test, as it is a critical part of defensive driving.

💡Four Way Stops

A four-way stop is an intersection where traffic from all directions must stop before proceeding. The script explains the rules for navigating four-way stops, emphasizing that the first person to arrive has the right of way, followed by the person on the right, as a way to avoid accumulating demerit points due to incorrect stop sign handling.

💡Two Way Stops

A two-way stop is similar to a four-way stop but only affects traffic on two roads. The video script clarifies that at a two-way stop, vehicles on the major road have the right of way, and drivers must understand this to avoid demerits and ensure safe passage at intersections.

💡Stopping Position

The stopping position refers to the correct place a driver should stop at controlled intersections, which is before the stop line or crosswalk line, or at the edge of the road where two roads meet. The script mentions that not stopping at the correct position can lead to demerits, highlighting its importance in both passing the test and safe driving.

💡Lane Changes

Lane changes involve moving a vehicle from one lane to another. The video script specifies that a minimum of two shoulder checks is required during a lane change to avoid demerits. This procedure, which includes checking mirrors, signaling, and performing shoulder checks, is crucial for safe and legal lane changes.

💡Signaling

Signaling is the use of turn signals to indicate a driver's intention to turn or change lanes. The script mentions that failing to signal, even in parking lots, can result in demerits. Proper signaling is essential for communicating with other drivers and maintaining traffic safety.

💡Following Distance

Following distance is the gap a driver maintains between their vehicle and the one in front of them. The video script advises maintaining a 2-3 second following distance to avoid demerits for following too closely, which is a common cause of rear-end collisions and a safety concern.

💡Lane Positioning

Lane positioning refers to the alignment of a vehicle within its lane. The script explains that staying too close to parked cars or not moving over for a right turn can result in demerits for incorrect lane positioning. Maintaining proper lane positioning is crucial for safe driving and passing the driver's test.

💡Turning Position

Turning position is the correct place a driver should position their vehicle when making a turn. The video script points out that being in the incorrect position when turning, such as being too deep in the intersection during a left-hand turn, can lead to demerits or failure. Correct turning position is vital for safe navigation through intersections.

💡Speed Management

Speed management involves driving at an appropriate speed for the conditions and the legal speed limits. The script warns that driving too slowly or failing to accelerate after a turn can result in major demerits. Proper speed management is essential for passing the driver's test and for being a safe and considerate driver.

💡Rear Window Check

A rear window check is when a driver looks out the rear window of the vehicle to check for traffic or obstacles during maneuvers like backing up. The video script emphasizes that relying solely on mirrors or backup cameras for these maneuvers can lead to demerits, as the primary line of sight should be through the rear window for safety.

💡Steering Wheel Control

Steering wheel control refers to the proper grip and use of the steering wheel while driving. The script mentions that drivers must keep both hands on the steering wheel during the test, which is essential for maintaining control of the vehicle and is a requirement for passing the driver's test.

Highlights

Top 10 reasons for accumulating demerit points in a driver's test

Importance of shoulder checking twice or thrice for every turn

Difference between four-way and two-way stop signs and their handling

Correct stopping position at controlled intersections

Minimum two shoulder checks required for a lane change

Need to signal every turn and sideways movement

Maintaining a safe following distance and avoiding being too close in a queue

Correct lane positioning to avoid accumulating demerits

Proper positioning when turning to avoid demerits

Driving at or above the speed limit to prevent demerits

Looking out the rear window for backing and slow speed maneuvers

Having both hands on the steering wheel throughout the test

The course package 'Pass Your Driver's Test, First Time' to reduce chances of failure

The necessity of a 360-degree scan before starting the vehicle

How to signal when leaving a parking space at the DMV

The significance of not hugging one side of the lane for proper lane positioning

The consequences of blocking the crosswalk while waiting for traffic

The importance of accelerating appropriately after a turn to avoid demerits

The bonus tip of not accumulating demerits by maintaining proper hand position on the wheel

Transcripts

- Not only can you fail your driver's test outright,

but you can also accumulate enough points

that you're not successful, and you don't pass.

Today we're going to give you the top 10 reasons

for accumulating demerit points,

and that way you won't do this,

and you'll pass your driver's test, first time.

Stick around,

we'll be right back with that information.

(upbeat music)

Number One.

the first reason that you will

accumulate demerit points

is because you're not shoulder checking

when you're turning,

or when you're moving the vehicle sideways.

And for the purposes of a driver's test,

and to stay safe after you get your license,

you have to shoulder check twice for every turn,

maybe even three times, depending on how long

you're at the corner when you're turning.

So, shoulder checking, I cannot emphasize that enough

for the purposes of a driver's test.

You must shoulder check, (laughing)

two times for a turn,

two times when you're moving the vehicle sideways.

And if you're sitting at the intersection for a while,

you may have to shoulder check again

to look into your blind areas.

Number Two, is you don't know the difference

between four way stops, and two way stops,

and you don't know how to handle

those two different stop sign configured intersections.

Four way stop sign intersection.

First person to arrive, the person on the right,

and then the other rules apply.

Straight through traffic over turning traffic,

and right turning traffic over left turning traffic.

two way stop signed intersections.

Major road over the minor road,

and then straight through traffic over turning traffic,

and right turning traffic over left turning traffic.

And for each one of these reasons

why you will accumulate the demerits on a driver's test,

look down in the description there,

I'll put a link to all of the videos

for the topics that I'm talking about

and the reasons that you will accumulate demerits.

So second reason, four way stop signs

and two way stop signed intersections.

Reason Number Three is connected to reason Number Two.

You don't know the correct stopping position

at controlled intersections,

or you don't get to that stopping position,

which is before the stop line,

before the crosswalk line.

And if those two conditions don't exist,

then it's at the edge of the road

where the two roads meet,

just before you enter the intersection.

Reason Number Four, lane changes.

If you don't have minimum

two shoulder checks on a lane change,

you are going to get demerits.

I would have gained demerits on that lane change,

because I only had one shoulder check.

So you need two shoulder checks.

Correct procedure for changing lanes,

mirror, signal, shoulder check.

The way is clear.

Shoulder check again, and we move over.

And that vehicle in front of us is moving across

so therefore we are able to keep our distance

behind the vehicle, our safe following distance.

This video is made possible by the course package,

"Pass Your Driver's Test, First Time",

because we know that your driver's test

is the most stressful day of your life,

and without some form of driver training

your chances of passing are less than 50%.

As a bonus, we'll include both the defensive,

and winter driving smart courses.

These will make you a safer, smarter driver,

and reduce your chances of being involved in an accident.

Click down in the description there, and get full details.

Number Five, not signaling.

And often new drivers get dinged for not signaling

when they're in parking lots.

So make sure that every time you turn,

every time you move the vehicle sideways,

or you leave a parking space,

that you signal in the direction

you're going to move the vehicle.

So, for example, if you're at the DMV

and the examiners told you to leave

the parking space and go left,

make sure you signal left.

As well, slow speed maneuvers, reversing,

make sure that you signal in the direction

that you're going to move the vehicle,

because that will get you dinged as well.

Or you're moving around an object

or something on the roadway,

such as this recycling truck up here.

I need to signal to move left

to get around the recycling truck,

shoulder check,

shoulder check again,

move out into the other lane,

into the other lane, and then shoulder check, signal back.

When you first show up to the DMV

back into the parking space, unless signs prohibit it.

When you leave, if the examiner tells you

to go left or right, whichever way you're going,

signal in that direction.

Number Six, following too close.

You're too close in a queue.

You're not stopping back,

so you can see the tires of the vehicle

in front of you making clear contact with the pavement.

If you get too close, even when the queue is moving up,

you're too close to the vehicle in front of you.

You also have to maintain a 2-3 second following distance

for the purposes of your driver's test.

Reason Number Seven is incorrect lane positioning.

I have parked cars here,

I need to move into the other lane.

I need to mirror, signal, shoulder check.

If you stay too close to those cars,

that's incorrect lane positioning

and you will accumulate demerits.

Same thing on the right hand turn here.

Shoulder check, and then move over to the right

side of the lane, because you're going to turn right.

If you stay out in the center of the lane here,

that's incorrect lane positioning

and you will probably accumulate five demerit points.

So you want to move over to the right,

so nobody sneaks up on the inside of you.

Lane positioning also includes

staying in the center of your lane

when you're driving forward.

If you hug one side of the lane or the other,

you're going to accumulate demerits for that

because you're not in the center of the lane.

If you touch that line, if you come over here

and touch this fog line, as I just did,

that's 10 points, at least, on a driver's test

for touching that lane.

So you need to follow the other traffic

look farther down the road,

and make sure that you are centered in your lane

and have good lane positioning for your driver's test.

Reason Number Eight,

incorrect position when turning.

For turning right, we want to be

to the right side of the lane.

If you're to the left side of the lane

when you're turning right,

that's incorrect lane position,

the same as if you're turning left,

and you're on the right side,

you're going to be assigned demerits.

If you're too deep in the intersection

when making a left-hand turn,

you're going to be assigned demerits again,

or you could outright fail,

depending on how critical of an error it is.

Blocking the crosswalk.

If I come up here, and I sit over the crosswalk like that,

and I wait for traffic,

I'm going to accumulate demerits.

Reason Number Nine,

too slow.

Being too namby pamby.

On your driver's test you need to,

if you turn and you're getting it up to speed,

get your foot into it, get it going.

If you just drive along,

and you're going below the speed limit,

five kilometers an hour, or five miles an hour

below the speed limit,

you are going to accumulate major demerits.

And if you do that throughout the duration of your test,

you will most likely fail for being too namby-pamby.

In keeping with that,

if you're turning and there's sufficient gap,

and you don't go,

again that's going to accumulate demerits.

Number 10 on a driver's test,

you must look out the rear window

for the purposes of backing, and other slow speed maneuvers.

If you use your mirrors, or you use your backup camera,

you will accumulate major demerits.

So, reversing along a curb,

you have to be looking out the back window.

You can use your mirrors, you can check them.

You can check a backup camera,

but for the most, for the primary line of sight

you have to be looking out the back window.

So you'd be backing, such as this,

anytime that you're conducting slow speed maneuvers.

And as well, I accumulated five demerits there

because I didn't do a 360 degree scan

before I started.

So, 360 degree scan, looking around the vehicle,

check your mirrors, check your backup camera,

and then look out the rear window

when you're backing up.

The bonus for not accumulating demerits

on your drivers test.

You must have two hands on the steering wheel

for the duration of your test.

You cannot drive for the duration

of the test like this. (laughing)

It looks cool in the movies,

but you can't do this,

because you will not pass your drivers test.

You probably won't even get two blocks from the DMV,

and they'll send you back to the DMV

and say, you know, sorry you're here,

but you didn't pass your driver's test.

We'll see you again,

you can book another appointment inside.

So, two hands on the steering wheel

for the duration of your driver's test.

It doesn't necessarily have to be 10 and 2,

it can be 9 and 3,

it could even be 8 and 4,

but this steering wheel I have in this vehicle

is not conducive to 8 and 4,

but you need to keep your hands

on the outside of the steering wheel,

and good steering wheel control.

As you're learning how to drive,

and preparing for your driver's test.

And remember, pick the best answer,

not necessarily the right answer.

Have a great day.

Bye now.

Hang on there one sec.

The thought of failing your driver's test (laughing)

is what keeps you up at night right now.

Click the link over here,

check out the Smarter Driver Course package

that guarantees that you will pass

your driver's test the first time

Click the link and check that out,

and have a great day.

All the best, bye now.