Damning new evidence released by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) shows that driving test crashes among rookie motorists is increasing. Is poor theory test preparation to blame? Is it terrible driving tuition? Are learner drivers just unlucky? Let’s find out…
510 driving test crashes occurred in 2016 according to the latest DVSA statistics, up from 408 in 2015. The 40-minute exam is proving to be a bit too much for some learner drivers, who find themselves rear-ending other road users, inexplicably wrapping their vehicle around a tree, or even flipping their car over completely.
What’s responsible for this madness? Apparently, a number of misdemeanours. For men, going too fast results in accidents. For women, botching their reverse parking manoeuvre results in catastrophe. However, both sexes show complete incompetence when it comes to spotting risks at junctions and checking their mirrors enough during the driving test.
Driving test crashes… who’s responsible? The rise in driving test crashes has called into question the standard of the driving theory test and the quality of tuition student drivers are receiving from Britain’s driving instructors.
Is the theory test actually teaching learner drivers about spotting risks or checking mirrors or are they simply just not taking it in? Are instructors putting candidates forward too early for their driving test?
According to the president of the AA, Edmund King: “New drivers should only sit a test when both their instructor and they feel they are confident and competent.”
If both instructor and student feel a learner driver is ready and ‘competent’ enough to take a practical exam, why the increase in driving test crashes? It could have everything to do with nerves.
Competency and capability go out of the window if you let your nerves get the better of you. With that in mind, it’s worth reading our How to Overcome the Stress of Driving Tests Guide.
New driving test
The shocking statistics for driving test crashes comes following the announcement of a new look practical driving exam set to be rolled out across Britain on 4 December, 2017. The announcement has been greeted with a mixed response, with some saying the new exam will lead to better driving standards, while others think nothing will change.
However, given that the latest DVSA statistics show an increase in driving test crashes, it’s clear that something has to be done to raise motoring standards in Britain… before it’s too late.
What do you think is to blame for an increase in driving test crashes? Contact Book Theory Test Today with your comments.
Book a practical driving test with us Book Theory Test Today offers an intermediary service assisting clients with booking a UK theory test, or practical test, at test centres across the nation. The service also supplies resources to help you prepare for your theory test – Ready to take your theory test? Book your theory test online today.
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Tags: King’s Lynn
