Novices often run out of fuel due to a combination of underestimating fuel consumption, misjudging travel distances, and failing to plan for unexpected detours or delays. This is particularly common among new drivers or those unfamiliar with the route they are traveling. According to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 30% of all vehicle breakdowns on highways are due to fuel exhaustion.

The primary reasons for these fuel-related errors include:

1. Inadequate Planning: Novices may not accurately calculate the amount of fuel needed for their trip, often underestimating the distance they can travel on a full tank. This is exacerbated by the fact that fuel consumption can vary significantly depending on driving conditions, vehicle type, and driving habits.

2. Ignoring Fuel Gauge: Many novices fail to regularly check their fuel gauge, leading to a lack of awareness about their fuel levels. This is particularly dangerous on long trips, where running out of fuel can occur without warning.

3. Overlooking Traffic Conditions: Urban and rural driving conditions can significantly impact fuel consumption. Novices may not anticipate the need for more fuel in heavy traffic or hilly terrain.

4. Neglecting Route Planning: Not planning the route in advance can lead to unexpected detours, which can consume more fuel than initially planned.

Data from the NHTSA further supports these points. For instance, a survey conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that 30% of drivers who run out of fuel do so because they underestimated the distance they could travel on a full tank. Additionally, the study revealed that 25% of these incidents occurred within 10 miles of the driver's home, indicating a lack of familiarity with the local area.

In conclusion, novices run out of fuel primarily due to inadequate planning, ignoring the fuel gauge, overlooking traffic conditions, and neglecting route planning. These factors, combined with a lack of experience, contribute to a significant number of preventable vehicle breakdowns on highways.