If you want to pass your UK driving test you'll need to be able to drive independently, following directions from a Sat Nav or Road Signs.

Even experienced drivers sometimes get confused when following directional road signs and find themselves in the wrong lane or taking the wrong turn.

In your driving test is doesn't matter if you take a wrong turn, providing you have done so safely, without affecting other road users.

These #drivingtips will help you to make good decisions when doing your independent drive.

#1 - Plan Ahead

It goes without saying, but if you don't plan where you're going, you probably won't get there.

• Look well ahead and make a note of any signs in the distance which may help when you get close enough to read them.

• If you aren't sure which direction the signs are going to send you, then make sure you check surrounding lanes early - before you might need to move - just in case you do need to change lanes.

#2 - Know What You're Looking For

Understanding how signs work is vital in helping you to recognise quickly where you're going.

Motorways information has blue backgrounds, primary routes have green, and non-primary or local routes have a white background.

• As well as looking for the destination name, make sure you look out for the road number too - this will help to confirm you're still in the right lane on roundabouts.

• Understand where to expect the information to be found (position of signs, information on roads etc)

#3 - Every Road Leads Somewhere

When I first passed my test (before sat navs and even Google existed), I used to panic when I wasn't sure where I was going. My mum told me that if I went wrong it didn't matter, because every road will take you somewhere...you can always turn around and go back. She was right!

So, when you're trying to use road signs to find your way somewhere, always remember that safety always comes first.

Never make a sudden lane change to stay on course, unless you've had time to check properly and signal if necessary. It's better to go the wrong way safely than the right way dangerously.

Whether your driving test requires you to follow road signs or the sat nav, you'll benefit from understanding how signs work.

Take time to learn the Highway Code. If you know what you're looking for, you'll always find your way.

For driving lessons in #Cannock, #Stafford and #Penkridge with WS Driving School visit the contact us page and make an enquiry.