Why Do Beginners Always Drift Off Course While Driving?

[StJonathan]

Beginners often drift off course while driving because they haven't fully mastered the technique of driving in a straight line. To keep the car moving straight, avoid gripping the steering wheel too rigidly or applying excessive force. Instead, hold the wheel evenly with both hands and keep your eyes focused straight ahead. Here are some methods for beginners to prevent the car from drifting off course: 1. Stay within the lane: Observe the left and right rearview mirrors to ensure the car stays within the lane, avoiding crossing or riding the lane lines. 2. Look far ahead: Keep your gaze focused on the road ahead to detect any deviation early and make timely corrections. 3. Stay relaxed: Minor adjustments to the steering wheel are sufficient to correct course deviations—avoid making large turns. Stay calm, keep your fingers flexible, and adjust the steering wheel as needed.

[CamilaFitz]

When I first started driving, I often had the same issue—the car would constantly veer from side to side. The main reason was being too tense, gripping the steering wheel like a vice, which caused overcorrection and made the car wobble like it was drunk. Another problem was focusing only on the hood or the roadside right in front of me, forgetting to look at a distant reference point, which instinctively made me steer toward where my eyes were fixed. With more practice, I learned to relax my shoulders, naturally rest my arms at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions, and periodically glance at the road markings far ahead. Over time, it became second nature, and my steering stabilized. Every new driver goes through this phase—don’t rush. Find an open area to practice straight-line driving at a slower, safer pace. Eventually, it’ll become instinctive, and safe driving is what truly matters.

[Everett]

In guiding novice drivers, steering deviation commonly stems from incorrect initial posture. For example, elbows being too stiff or focusing only on the nearby road surface can lead to distraction, causing the car to drift. The key solution is to adjust habits: look ahead at reference points at least 50 meters away, avoid frequently checking the dashboard; and steer gently without using excessive force. Choose a quiet road for dedicated practice, set fixed points for straight-line driving, and maintain steady breathing. After a few weeks of persistence, muscle memory will develop, resulting in more stable and effortless driving.

[GiaLee]

As a new driver who just got my license, I understand this awkward situation: the car always drifts to one side, especially on highways. Back then, I was so nervous that I gripped the steering wheel rigidly, and my sweaty hands made it slippery, resulting in stiff movements that led to continuous minor corrections. A friend suggested that I hum a song to relax while practicing, focus my gaze on distant landmarks like bridges or mountains as anchor points, and avoid distractions like checking my phone. After driving a few more times on rural flat roads, I felt much better, and now my driving is much smoother.