What happens if you accidentally touch the windshield wiper during the Subject 2 test?
2 Answers
During the right-angle turn in Subject 2, if you accidentally touch the windshield wiper, you will be deducted 100 points at once. This situation falls under the penalty item of 'failing to correctly use lights, windshield wipers, and other common vehicle controls,' hence the 100-point deduction. Additionally, during the simulated rainy or foggy weather in Subject 2, failing to turn on or correctly use the windshield wiper will also result in a 100-point deduction. Below is relevant information: Subject 2 Test: If you fail the test once, you are allowed one retake. If you do not attend the retake or fail it again, the test session ends, and the applicant must reschedule the test after ten days. Subject 2 Requirements: For small cars, small automatic transmission cars, small automatic transmission passenger cars for disabled individuals, and low-speed trucks, the test includes reversing into a parking space, stopping and starting on a slope, parallel parking, curve driving, and right-angle turns.
During my time teaching driving, I've seen many students accidentally touch the windshield wiper switch during the Subject 2 test. Generally, if it's just a light touch that doesn't activate the wipers or is immediately turned off, the examiner will first give a verbal warning to remind you to stay focused. However, if the wipers are accidentally activated and continue to operate, especially during critical moments like reversing into a parking space or stopping on a slope, the examiner may deem it as distracted operation, resulting in a deduction of 5 to 10 points. After all, the test rules emphasize safety regulations, and any unnecessary operations are considered violations. For example, last year, a student mistakenly activated the switch during hill start, panicked and forgot to turn it off, causing the car to wobble. The examiner deducted points on the spot, leading to a failure and a retake. In reality, Subject 2 primarily assesses fundamental skills like steering control and safety awareness. Except for the seatbelt, avoid touching any other in-car devices. Practicing beforehand to familiarize yourself with button locations can completely prevent such accidents. Everyone must develop good habits during practice to ensure steady performance and scoring during the actual test.
