How is a Midway Stop Determined?
3 Answers
Car stopping for more than 2 seconds is considered a midway stop. In the driving license Subject 2 test, a midway stop is determined when the GPS positioning confirms the vehicle is in a completely stationary state during the test. Precautions to avoid midway stops are as follows: 1. Pay attention to speed: During the test, when passing over uneven ground or the seams of cement blocks in the venue, the speed should be slightly faster. 2. Steering control: When turning the steering wheel to the maximum, slightly release the clutch to prevent a midway stop. When returning the steering wheel, slightly press the clutch to control the speed. 3. Clutch control: Step on the clutch properly to control the vehicle speed.
How is stopping midway during the driving test judged? To put it simply, during the road test, you can't just stop the car randomly. I learned from my instructor that the examiner will monitor your actions throughout the test. If the vehicle doesn't stop at designated places like test points or intersections when it should, but stops in the middle of the road for no reason—such as braking when there are no cars or obstacles ahead—it will be recorded as stopping midway. This can lead to point deductions or even failing the test, which is crucial. I remember being extremely nervous during my first test, afraid of stopping in the wrong place. I recommend that beginners practice more simulations during training, maintain a steady speed, look ahead, and anticipate timely stops. Don’t panic just because there are cars nearby; keep control of the steering wheel and brakes. The examiner mainly checks if the stop is reasonable—for example, stopping for pedestrians is normal, but stopping for no reason is a problem. With more practice, you’ll naturally avoid this situation. Keep it up!
As a seasoned instructor with years of experience, the criteria for failing a mid-drive stop mainly focus on two points: first, stopping suddenly without permission while driving, and second, stopping outside designated areas. The examiner monitors the vehicle's status throughout the test. If you stop without traffic lights or obstacles, or if your speed drops to nearly zero for too long, it will be marked as a fail. I advise students to practice observing road conditions during training, avoid fixating on the dashboard, and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. During the test, try to maintain a steady speed. In emergencies like avoiding a collision, steer first and lightly tap the brakes if necessary without coming to a complete stop. Stay relaxed, communicate details with your instructor, and you'll get the hang of it quickly. The key is to develop anticipation habits and not let a small mistake ruin the entire process.
