Home » 15 Driving Myths New (& Experienced) Drivers Should Know

15 Driving Myths New (& Experienced) Drivers Should Know

Driving can be a thrilling and liberating experience for new drivers. However, it can also be confusing due to the numerous myths and misconceptions surrounding driving. This article aims to debunk these myths, ensuring that new drivers (and experienced) are well-informed and can make safer decisions on the road.

The Importance of Debunking Driving Myths

Myths and misconceptions can lead to dangerous habits, misunderstandings of traffic laws, and costly mistakes. Debunking these myths helps new drivers develop better driving skills, adhere to traffic laws, and maintain their vehicles properly, ultimately contributing to safer roads for everyone.

—–

Common Myths About Learning to Drive

Myth 1: You Should Always Signal When Changing Lanes

While signalling is crucial for safety, there are situations where it can be detrimental. For example, signalling too early or late can confuse other drivers. Instead, use your judgment to determine when it’s appropriate to signal, and always check your mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.

Myth 2: You Must Drive in the Middle of the Lane

Although it’s essential to stay within your lane, driving in the middle of the lane isn’t always the safest option. Instead, adjust your position based on road conditions, traffic, and visibility.

Myth 3: Passing the Test Means You’re a Great Driver

While passing the driving test is a significant accomplishment, it’s only the beginning of your driving journey. Continue honing your skills, learning from experienced drivers, and being mindful of your actions on the road.

Traffic Laws and Safety Misconceptions

Myth 4: Speed Limits Are Just Suggestions

Speed limits are set for a reason: to keep everyone safe. Disregarding them can lead to accidents and serious consequences, including fines and penalty points on your license. Always adhere to posted speed limits and adjust your speed based on weather and road conditions.

Myth 5: Hands-Free Devices Are Completely Safe

While hands-free devices reduce the risk of distraction, they don’t eliminate it. Using a hands-free device can still divert your attention from the road, leading to dangerous situations. The safest option is to minimise usage while driving and focus on the road. Read our article on What Is The Law On Mobile Phones Whilst Driving?

Myth 6: Driving Slowly Is Always Safer

While excessive speed is dangerous, driving too slowly can also create hazards. Slow-moving vehicles can cause impatience in other drivers, leading to risky manoeuvres. Be mindful of the flow of traffic and adjust your speed accordingly.

—–

Maintenance and Fuel Efficiency Myths

Myth 7: Premium Fuel Improves Performance in All Cars

Premium fuel is designed for high-performance engines and may not provide any benefits for regular vehicles. Consult your car’s owner manual to determine the recommended fuel type, and stick to it to avoid wasting money on unnecessary premium fuel.

Myth 8: Regular Oil Changes Aren’t Necessary

Oil changes are crucial for maintaining your car’s performance and longevity. Failing to change the oil regularly can lead to engine damage and costly repairs. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended oil change interval and adhere to it.

Insurance and Legal Myths

Myth 9: Red Cars Cost More to Insure

The colour of your car does not affect your insurance premium. Insurance companies consider factors like your driving history, vehicle make and model, and location when determining rates. Choose a car colour you like without worrying about its impact on your insurance costs.

Myth 10: Comprehensive Insurance Covers Everything

Comprehensive motor insurance covers a wide range of incidents, such as theft, fire, and vandalism. However, it does not cover liability for injuries or damages you cause to others. It’s essential to understand your policy’s coverage and limitations and consider additional coverage if necessary.

Environmental and Health Myths

Myth 11: Electric Vehicles Aren’t as Green as They Seem

While electric vehicles (EVs) do have environmental impacts, such as battery production and electricity generation, they still produce fewer emissions than conventional vehicles. As renewable energy sources become more prevalent, EVs will become even greener.

Myth 12: Driving Barefoot or in Flip-Flops Is Illegal

There is no specific law in the United Kingdom prohibiting driving barefoot or in flip-flops. However, your footwear should not impede your ability to operate the vehicle safely. If you’re involved in an accident and your footwear is deemed a factor, you could face penalties.

—–

Weather-Related Myths

Myth 13: Four-Wheel Drive Makes You Invincible in Snowy Conditions

While four-wheel drive can provide better traction in snow and ice, it does not make your vehicle immune to the hazards of winter weather. Regardless of your vehicle’s drive system, it’s essential to maintain a safe speed, leave plenty of space between vehicles, and use caution when driving in challenging conditions.

Myth 14: You Don’t Need Winter Tyres if You Have All-Season Tyres

All-season tyres provide a decent performance in various weather conditions, but they are not as effective as winter tyres in snow and ice. Winter tyres have a specialised rubber compound and tread pattern designed to improve grip and handling in cold conditions. Consider investing in winter tyres if you frequently drive in snowy or icy areas.

Car Ownership Myths

Myth 15: Buying a New Car is Always Better Than a Used One

New cars come with a manufacturer’s warranty and the latest features, but they can be significantly more expensive than used vehicles. A well-maintained used car can be a more cost-effective option, especially for new drivers who may face higher insurance premiums. Conduct thorough research and consider your budget, needs, and preferences when choosing between new and used cars.

Conclusion

New drivers can face many situations on the road that are unfamiliar with them, this all comes with experience, and as a result there are various myths and misconceptions that can impact the way you drive. By debunking these driving myths, we can help new drivers develop safer habits, make informed decisions, and contribute to a safer driving environment for everyone on the road.

—–

Myths About Driving Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the top driving myths and misconceptions that people believe?

There are several driving myths and misconceptions that people tend to believe, including ideas about premium fuel, warming up your car, and manual transmission superiority. It’s essential to debunk these myths to ensure better driving practices and safety on the road.

2. Is it true that premium fuel improves the performance of all cars?

No, the myth that premium fuel improves performance for all cars is not accurate. In reality, premium fuel is only necessary for specific high-performance or luxury vehicles that have engines designed for high-octane fuel. For most cars, using regular fuel is sufficient and will not negatively impact performance. Read our article on How To Save Fuel: 6 Top Tips.

3. Do you need to warm up your car before driving in cold weather?

The widespread belief that warming up your car before driving in cold weather is essential is a common driving misconception. Modern cars with fuel injection systems do not require extensive idling to warm up. Instead, it’s best to start your car and drive gently for the first few minutes to warm up the engine efficiently.

4. Is manual transmission more fuel-efficient than automatic transmission?

The myth that manual transmission is always more fuel-efficient than automatic transmission is outdated. With advancements in technology, modern automatic transmissions can now achieve equal or even better fuel efficiency compared to manual transmissions, depending on the make and model of the vehicle.

5. Do red cars get pulled over more frequently by the police?

The driving myth that red cars are more likely to be pulled over by the police is not supported by evidence. The primary factors affecting the likelihood of being pulled over include speeding, traffic violations, and vehicle maintenance issues, not the colour of the car.

6. Can you use the car’s air conditioning without affecting fuel consumption?

It is a common misconception that using air conditioning has no impact on fuel consumption. In reality, using the car’s air conditioning system can increase fuel consumption due to the added load on the engine. However, this increase is typically minimal, and using air conditioning is often more fuel-efficient than driving with windows down at high speeds.

7. Is it safe to rely solely on your car’s mirrors for checking blind spots?

One of the most dangerous driving myths is that your car’s mirrors are sufficient for checking blind spots. While mirrors are helpful, it’s essential to physically turn your head and check your blind spots before changing lanes or merging. Blind spot monitoring systems can also be a valuable addition to your vehicle for enhanced safety.

—–

8. Do bigger cars always offer better safety?

The myth that bigger cars are always safer is not entirely accurate. While size and weight can contribute to safety in a crash, modern vehicle safety features, such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control, play a significant role in protecting occupants. It is crucial to evaluate a car’s overall safety rating and features rather than relying solely on its size.

9. Is it true that turning off your engine at a red light saves fuel?

The belief that turning off your engine at a red light saves fuel is only partially true. While turning off the engine can conserve fuel, it is generally only beneficial during long wait times. For short stops, the fuel consumption required to restart the engine may outweigh the potential savings.

10. Are hands-free devices completely safe to use while driving?

While hands-free devices are considered safer than using handheld devices while driving, they are not completely risk-free. The use of any device, even hands-free, can contribute to cognitive distraction, leading to slower reaction times and reduced attention to the road. It is essential to minimise distractions while driving to ensure the highest level of safety. See our article on What is the law on mobile phone use when driving.

11. Is it true that using cruise control in the rain is safe?

The driving myth that using cruise control in the rain is safe is incorrect. In wet conditions, cruise control can increase the risk of hydroplaning, as it may cause your vehicle to accelerate unexpectedly to maintain the set speed. It is recommended to avoid using cruise control in rainy or slippery conditions and maintain manual control over your vehicle’s speed. See our article on Driving in poor weather conditions for more information.

12. Is it safe to drive with your interior lights on?

The myth that driving with your interior lights on is dangerous is not entirely accurate. However, having interior lights on can cause glare and reduce visibility, particularly during night-time driving. To maintain optimal visibility and minimise distractions, it’s best to keep the interior lights off while driving.

13. Does ABS always shorten stopping distances?

The belief that Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) always shorten stopping distances is a common driving misconception. ABS is designed to prevent wheels from locking up, allowing for better steering control during hard braking. In some cases, this may result in a slightly longer stopping distance, but it helps maintain control of the vehicle and avoid potential collisions.

14. Is it true that you should always coast in neutral to save fuel?

The driving myth that coasting in neutral saves fuel is not entirely accurate. In modern fuel-injected cars, coasting in neutral can actually consume more fuel than coasting in gear. When you coast in gear, the car’s momentum powers the engine, and fuel injection is often reduced or cut off entirely. Coasting in neutral requires the engine to burn fuel to maintain idle speed.

15. Are electric vehicles always better for the environment?

While electric vehicles (EVs) produce zero exhaust emissions, the myth that they are always better for the environment is not universally true. The overall environmental impact of an EV depends on various factors, such as the source of electricity used for charging and the production and disposal of batteries. It is crucial to consider the entire lifecycle of an EV when assessing its environmental impact.

—–