Top 10 reasons for failing the UK practical driving test 2019
If your looking to pass your driving test in Manchester, have a look through some of the common reasons why people fail their driving test.
The Driving Examiner is not looking for perfection on your driving test. Your overall objective is to drive in a safe, observant manner, respecting speed limits without effecting traffic or other road users. You can get up to 15 minor faults but 1 serious or dangerous fault & you will have to repeat the driving test. Ask your driving Instructor for a mock test to ensure your prepared for the big day.
1. Observation at junctions: “look right, left & ahead”
Poor observations at junctions are one of the top 10 reasons for failing your driving test.
Use the MSPSL routine, peep & creep if necessary at closed junctions until you have a clear vision of potential hazards.
Top tip: Try not to stare in any particular direction but continuously glance & scan for any hazards.
Think- Will your action cause motorists or cyclists to suddenly slow down or stop.
2. Failing to check mirrors: “Mirror or Mirrors”
Your main focus should obviously be ahead, but you should be checking your mirrors on a regular basis during your driving test as they give you valuable information & help your decision making. Mirrors must be checked in good time when changing speed or direction.
Top tip: “Objects in mirror are closer than they appear” your center Mirror gives you a true picture, side mirrors are convex. A sideways glance, checking your blind spot is essential when moving lanes
Think: M-S-M Check your mirrors BEFORE signaling or moving direction, Not whilst your moving!
3. Control of steering wheel “pull & push”
The Driving examiner is looking for safe smooth steering keeping good control. Improper steering or excessive steering, causing you to go close to a kerb or cars will cause a fault.
Top Tip: Slowing down when approaching bends, roundabouts or tight roads will ensure smooth, steering as you will have greater control at slower speeds. Doors width away when passing a parked car.
4. Turning right at junctions “slow down on the approach & plan ahead”
Turning right at junctions or crossroads is one the most common reasons for failing your driving test. You need to ensure correct road position, good clutch control, & great observation.
Remember your point of turn, not cutting corners or swing too far left.
Top Tip: If you have stopped to give way to oncoming traffic, check your’re in the right gear!
5. Failing to move off safely from stationary position “Lifesaver check”
The examiner will ask you to park up & move off safely during the driving test & it is essential you check over your right shoulder just before you move off.
Top Tip: Perfect your POM routine during your driving lessons & you will naturally do this on test day.
6. Positioning of car on road “Stay in your lane”
Lane discipline & drifting slightly into another lane, towards parked cars or the kerb will cause a driving fault. Keep an eye on road markings, be particularly careful on roundabouts & bends.
Top Tip: Ask your driving instructor to give you a reference point to help maintain lane discipline when passing parked cars.
7. Inappropriate speed: “20 is Plenty”
It does not necessarily follow that only small roads are 20mph.
If you are taking driving lessons near Didsbury test center, you will have noticed lots of 20mph speed limits & speed limit changes. Be particularly careful during school times. You can fail your test for going too fast or to slow!
Top Tip: Whenever entering a road, check the road marking & street signs indicating speed limit & look for changes further along the road.
8. Response to traffic lights: “Green Means Go”
If your in the habit of following the car in front & not anticipating that the green lights may change as you approach, you’re very likely to come unstuck on your driving test.
Whenever you see traffic lights ahead anticipate them changing as your approaching. Don’t suddenly brake when you are near the stop line as it may not always be safe for you to do this. Make sure you stop at the first line & not go over Advanced Stop Lines or “Bike box”. Look for the green filter light as waiting unnecessarily will incur a fault.
Top Tip: Scan pavements for people waiting to cross when approaching pedestrian crossings.
9. Reverse park Exercise “ Slow & steady”
The reverse parking exercise on the driving test such as parallel parking, fills many with dread.
You should not really fail on the manoeuvres as you can always fix it. For example if not correctly parked in a bay, open the door if necessary & check. The most common way to fail is due to lack of observation whilst parking, so take your time slow clutch control & pause if necessary for other passing traffic.
Top Tip: memorise & stick to the reference points you were taught by your driving instructor.
10. Response to traffic signs “be alert & anticipate”
Be aware & alert to roadworks, temporary lane changes or diversions. Plan your lane change early. Roadworks with temporary traffic lights, stop at the correct place.
Top Tip: try to ensure you will clear a box Junction & don’t stop in “Keep Clear” box or pedestrian crossing if in queuing traffic.
