Is It Normal for Beginners to Frequently Scratch Their Cars?
3 Answers
It is normal for beginners to frequently scratch their cars. Reasons for Scratches: Scratches mainly occur due to inaccurate judgment of the car's dimensions, sensitivity of the throttle and brakes, insufficient observation of the surrounding environment, and operational errors. Precautions: Meeting another car on a wide road usually doesn't cause problems, but on narrow roads, scratches are more likely to happen. In such cases, drive slowly, ensure the position of the right wheels, and then pay attention to the meeting point on the left. If unsure, stop and let the other car pass. Problems often arise when making U-turns, so extra attention should be paid to the left side. Ensure there are no vehicles or pedestrians before turning. In tight spaces, if unsure about completing the U-turn in one go, it's best to turn the steering wheel multiple times.
As a new driver just learning to drive, I totally understand how frustrating those scratches and dents can be. In my first few months after getting my license, I kept scraping other cars while parking because I couldn't judge distances properly, especially when making U-turns in tight spaces. My instructor said this is a common issue - beginners often lack spatial awareness and react slower. With more practice, I gradually reduced accidents by constantly adjusting with rearview and side mirrors. Don't be too hard on yourself - everyone's learning curve is different. I'd suggest finding a friend to practice with in empty parking lots, focusing on reverse parking and parallel parking - you'll improve much faster. Over time, your skills will naturally improve, and you'll gain more confidence behind the wheel.
From my experience helping family members learn to drive, it's absolutely normal for beginners to frequently scrape their cars. When they first get behind the wheel, they're often nervous and focus too much on road conditions, easily neglecting the distance judgment between the car body and obstacles. While teaching my cousin, I noticed he always turned too sharply, resulting in scraping against roadside curbs. Practicing basic maneuvers more, such as slow-speed driving and proper use of the rearview mirror system, can alleviate these issues. Additionally, installing a parking sensor or camera is very practical for preventing accidents. Remember, safety comes first—don't rush to save time. Once you get familiar with driving, these incidents will happen less often.
