Driving Help (license, vehicles, best)

[TheDramaQueen]

Okay, I'm 21 and haven't gotten around to getting my license yet. I have had two temp packets (one at 16, one at 18) passed the written/vision no problem both times - Never tried the driving test either time.

Reason - I can do perfectly fine on back roads, two lanes, and basically anywhere else - except intersections.

When you get into the 4/5/6etc way intersections, i am always unsure of myself (and other drivers). I have studied up on 'tips' and rules/regulations at the intersections, but i guess im trying to soak up as much information as i can before i jump into a temps pack again (Hopefully third times the charm!) i want to have my license by may (at least).

Any tips, suggestions, or area's to read up on things with this? I've studied the booklet, and have a PDF of it.. i've took notes on friends/relatives that drive and i've googled my mind away.

I think my main problem is four of the 9 older women in my family do not drive. They are all afraid of something else (Oncoming traffic, other drivers, intersections, free ways.. etc) so im guessing it was somehow instilled in me as well.

How can i be more confident at the intersections? Any help is appreciated!

[Crew Chief]

Hi Drama Queen! Intersections really aren't that bad. I'd say the rules pretty much are:

Go if the light is green (and after you are sure someone coming from the other direction won't be running their red light. Try to anticipate a yellow/red light by observing how long the light ahead of you has been green. If it's been "green" awhile, be ready to stop. The pedestrian crossing lights at the upcoming intersection will help you, too. If the light indicates "cross" for the pedestrians walking the same direction you are driving, you'll know that you have plenty of time to get through the light. If the crosswalk light is flashing or says "Don't Walk", then you should be prepared to stop.

At intersections controlled by a stop sign, the first vehicle to the intersection goes first. Then the rest of the vehicles go in order of arrival. If just two vehicles arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the right should proceed first. If in doubt, let the other vehicle go first.

Drama Queen, that's pretty much it. Don't be nervous! All the information you need to pass your driving test will be in the driver's manual that your state issues. Best of luck on your test!

[ogre]

The state license manual should have all the basic info about the rules of the road in various situations, including right-of-way at intersections. It sounds as if you're in a difficult situation, since the general attitude in your family discourages driving. I can see how this could also make it difficult to find a licensed driver to ride with you while you practice driving. I would still suggest getting out and practicing as often as this can be arranged. The more driving you do in situations where you are comfortable, the more relaxed and confident you will be while driving in various situations. As you become more confident behind the wheel in general, it will be easier to be relaxed when you approach new situations on the road. Good luck, and hang in there.