Common Traffic Light Mistakes on the Isle of Wight Driving Test (and How to Avoid Them)
Don’t Let the Lights Catch You Out
Traffic lights are one of the most common places where learner drivers lose marks — not because they don’t understand the rules, but because nerves and hesitation can cause small but costly errors.
If you’re taking your driving test at Newport Test Centre, chances are you’ll encounter several sets of traffic lights — especially around Coppins Bridge, Fairlee Road, and Morrisons.
Let’s look at the most frequent mistakes learners make, and how to handle them calmly and confidently.
1. Rushing Through Amber Lights
It’s tempting to think you can “make it” when the light turns amber — but remember, amber means stop, unless it’s unsafe to do so.
Why it happens:
Learners worry that stopping might annoy drivers behind them or seem hesitant to the examiner.
How to avoid it:
- Keep checking your mirrors so you know what’s behind you.
- Ease off the accelerator early if you think the lights may change.
- Only continue through amber if stopping sharply would cause danger.
👉 Tip: On the Isle of Wight’s slower urban roads, you’ll almost always have enough time to stop safely when amber appears.
2. Not Seeing Filter Arrows
Filter lights are common on the Island — especially at Coppins Bridge and Lake traffic lights.
Why it happens:
Learners sometimes focus on the main light and miss the green arrow that allows certain turns.
How to avoid it:
- Look up and check all light heads — not just the main one.
- Remember: a green arrow means you can go in that direction, even if the main light is red (but still check it’s clear!).
- Stay in the correct lane and follow the arrow markings carefully.
3. Moving Off Too Early
It’s easy to anticipate the green light — but going before it actually changes can lead to a fault, or worse, danger.
Why it happens:
Learners see red and amber together and assume it’s time to go.
How to avoid it:
- Red and amber means get ready, not go.
- Wait until you actually see green before releasing the clutch or moving off.
- Practise timing your move smoothly to avoid stalling or jumping forward.
4. Stopping Past the White Line
You must always stop before the white stop line at traffic lights.
Why it happens:
Learners misjudge their stopping distance or focus too much on the lights ahead instead of their position.
How to avoid it:
- Use the road markings or lampposts as distance guides.
- Stop gradually, not abruptly.
- If you accidentally go past the line, stay where you are — don’t reverse.
5. Not Checking the Junction Is Clear on Green
Green means go if it’s safe — not go automatically.
Why it happens:
Learners focus on the light and forget to check cross traffic, especially when cars are turning or pedestrians are still crossing.
How to avoid it:
- Before you move, look both ways across the junction.
- Make sure no one is finishing their turn or crossing.
- Take a moment — examiners prefer caution over rushing.
6. Confusing Temporary Lights
Temporary roadworks lights are common on the Isle of Wight, especially on rural routes like Arreton, Godshill, or Yarmouth.
Why it happens:
Learners assume they work like normal junction lights, but these often control a single-lane system.
How to avoid it:
- Always stop at the portable light unit.
- Wait until it clearly turns green for your direction.
- Check the road ahead is clear before moving through — visibility can be limited.
7. Hesitating Too Long at Green
Examiners look for confident, timely decisions. Waiting too long when the light turns green can be marked as undue hesitation.
Why it happens:
Learners worry about missing something or getting it wrong.
How to avoid it:
- Check both directions quickly, then go if it’s clear.
- Practise smooth clutch control so you’re ready to move promptly.
- Confidence comes with familiarity — your instructor will help you get comfortable with real local lights before test day.
Stay Calm and Think Ahead
Most traffic light mistakes come down to rushing or reacting too late. The key is to:
- Look well ahead
- Anticipate the light phases
- Keep a steady pace
- Make calm, deliberate decisions
When you stay relaxed and observant, everything slows down — even busy junctions like Coppins Bridge start to feel manageable.
How Humphreys Driving Lessons Can Help
At Humphreys Driving Lessons, we’ll help you master every type of traffic light you’ll encounter on the Isle of Wight.
Your instructor will guide you through:
- Traffic-light junctions in Newport, Ryde, and Sandown
- Real filter light systems
- Temporary traffic light timing
- Correct observation and judgment under test conditions
You’ll build the awareness, timing, and calm control that examiners love to see.
👉 Book your driving lesson today and take the stress out of traffic lights — for your test and beyond.