When you're a new driver, everything feels like a learning curve. You're getting used to the car, the road, and all the little decisions that come with being behind the wheel. It's no wonder rookie drivers often make mistakes.

But some of these mistakes are more common than others—and knowing what to avoid can make you a much safer driver. Here are the 10 most common errors new drivers make, and how you can avoid them.

1. Not Checking Blind Spots

You've probably heard this a million times in driving school: always check your blind spots. Yet, new drivers often forget to do this, especially when changing lanes or merging.

• Why It's Dangerous: Blind spots are areas around your car that aren't visible in your mirrors. If you don't check them before making a move, you could crash into a car you didn't see.

• How to Avoid It: Always glance over your shoulder before changing lanes or merging. It's a simple step that can prevent accidents.

2. Overusing the Brake Pedal

It's tempting to press the brake pedal too hard, especially when you're nervous. However, new drivers often tap or slam on the brakes unnecessarily, which can cause jerky stops or even rear-end collisions.

• Why It's Dangerous: Sudden braking without warning can startle other drivers and cause accidents, especially on highways or busy roads.

• How to Avoid It: Try to anticipate stops and use smooth, gradual braking. Look ahead and give yourself plenty of time to slow down.

3. Driving Too Fast or Too Slow

One common mistake new drivers make is either driving too fast for comfort or driving too slowly because of nerves.

• Why It's Dangerous: Going too fast can lead to losing control or not having enough time to react to sudden changes. On the other hand, driving too slowly can confuse other drivers and even create dangerous situations.

• How to Avoid It: Stick to the speed limit and adjust based on road conditions. If you're feeling nervous, go a bit slower—but not so slow that you're causing a traffic jam.

4. Not Using Turn Signals

Turn signals seem like such a basic part of driving, but new drivers often forget to use them, especially in situations where they might think it's “obvious” what they're doing.

• Why It's Dangerous: Failing to signal can confuse other drivers and lead to accidents. Other drivers need to know your intentions to react safely.

• How to Avoid It: Get into the habit of using your turn signals every time you change lanes, turn, or make a maneuver. It's an easy way to communicate with other drivers.

5. Failing to Yield Right of Way

Many new drivers get confused about who has the right of way, especially at intersections and when merging onto highways.

• Why It's Dangerous: Not yielding when required can cause serious accidents, especially when other drivers are trying to follow the rules.

• How to Avoid It: Familiarize yourself with traffic signs and right-of-way rules. Be patient and wait for your turn, even if you feel like the other driver is being slow.

6. Improper Parking

Whether it's parking too far from the curb, taking up two spaces, or misjudging the parking lines, new drivers often struggle with parking.

• Why It's Dangerous: Improper parking can block other vehicles, create hazards, and even lead to accidents when someone else tries to navigate around your car.

• How to Avoid It: Take your time when parking. Use your mirrors and look around to ensure you're properly aligned in your space. Practice parallel parking in empty lots to build confidence.

7. Not Keeping a Safe Following Distance

A lot of new drivers tend to follow too closely behind other vehicles because they're worried about holding up traffic or want to pass quickly.

• Why It's Dangerous: Tailgating leaves you little time to react if the car in front of you suddenly brakes. You could end up in a rear-end collision.

• How to Avoid It: Always keep at least a three-second gap between your car and the vehicle ahead. If it's raining or visibility is low, increase the distance to four or five seconds.

8. Driving Distracted

Using a phone, fiddling with the radio, or even just daydreaming—distractions are a huge problem for new drivers.

• Why It's Dangerous: Distractions take your attention away from the road, making it harder to react to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions.

• How to Avoid It: Put your phone on silent or use hands-free settings if you need to talk. Avoid adjusting the radio or GPS while driving—pull over if you need to make changes.

9. Not Adjusting Mirrors Properly

Many new drivers don't realize the importance of setting up mirrors properly. They either don't adjust them at all, or they make adjustments too late.

• Why It's Dangerous: Poorly adjusted mirrors can lead to blind spots and make it difficult to see other vehicles on the road.

• How to Avoid It: Adjust your side and rearview mirrors before starting your drive, and make sure you can see clearly behind and beside you. If you're unsure, have a passenger help you adjust them.

10. Panic Stopping

It's common for new drivers to panic when something unexpected happens on the road—like a pedestrian crossing or another car suddenly stopping in front of them.

• Why It's Dangerous: Panic stopping can cause skidding, loss of control, and rear-end collisions.

• How to Avoid It: Stay calm, take a deep breath, and apply the brakes gradually. Keep a safe distance from vehicles in front of you so you have enough time to react.

Driving is a skill that takes practice and patience. By being aware of these common mistakes and actively working to avoid them, you'll improve your driving and become more confident behind the wheel. Remember, it's okay to make mistakes as long as you learn from them. So, take your time, stay focused, and drive safely!