Why Can't Beginners Drive in a Straight Line?
2 Answers
Beginners may struggle to drive in a straight line because they are not yet accustomed to looking far ahead while driving. Not accustomed to looking far ahead while driving: Many people have a common habit of only focusing on the front of the car while driving. The front of the car and the interior dashboard are usually oval-shaped. This oval shape can create a visual discrepancy, making beginner drivers feel that the car is misaligned, leading them to constantly adjust the steering wheel. As a result, they end up driving in an S-shaped path. Solution: The first step to driving straight is to look far ahead and not just focus on the front of the car. Lack of understanding of the car's steering wheel: Many beginner drivers believe that the car will immediately change direction as soon as they turn the steering wheel. However, there is a slight delay in the steering response. If the car is drifting slightly, it will take a few seconds to straighten out after adjustment, rather than immediately correcting itself. Solution: Avoid unnecessary steering wheel movements and keep a relaxed grip on the steering wheel.
When I first started driving, I also kept veering off course. Later, I realized it was mainly due to poor steering wheel control. Beginners tend to grip the steering wheel too tightly, causing the car to sway with even the slightest movement, leading to overcorrection and a zigzag path. Another key issue is vision—focusing only on the road a few meters ahead makes it hard to judge if the car is straight. Instead, look at a target 100 meters away and use peripheral vision to check lane lines. I recommend practicing on a straight, empty road: relax your arms, lightly hold the wheel, and make tiny adjustments (no more than half a finger’s width) if you drift. With practice, you’ll get the hang of it—don’t rush.
