The Book Theory Test Today blogger explores the phenomenon of driving games helping learner motorists to pass their driving test.
Driving games are apparently spurring on learner motorists to pass their theory test and practical driving exam according to new research.
A poll of 1,419 learner drivers aged 18-50, undertaken by Privilege car insurance, found that 73 per cent of those who played driving games on a regular basis had passed their theory test and practical driving exam first time round, a statistic that’s 15 per cent higher than the national average.
However, of the 73 per cent that passed the theory test and driving exam first time 77 per cent confessed to having an accident within the first 12 months of getting their licence.
In a statement from the head of car insurance at Privilege, Charlotte Fielding, she said: “Our research shows that simulated driving experiences gives learners increased confidence on the road. However, the figure for new driver accidents for gamers is worryingly high, suggesting over-confidence can lead to mistakes. Managing a car and being a responsible driver is not a game and accidents in the real world can have serious consequences.â€
The Book Theory Test Today blogger says: “The urge to drive, particularly among younger people, is actually quite overwhelming. Those young people that play driving simulation games feel more encouraged to do the real thing. Therefore, they are more focused when it comes to passing the theory test and practical driving exam.â€
The research carried out by Privilege is not the first of its kind to assess the psychological effects of driving simulation games when learner motorists get behind the wheel of a real vehicle. However, the majority of research tends to find that gamers can be more reckless behind the wheel, often exuding over-confidence.
Many commentators worry that glorifying driving video games represents a danger to the ‘reality of driving’.
The survey conducted by Privilege has come under some scrutiny due to the relatively low sample of people used to assess the claim that gaming helps learner drivers to pass the theory test and practical driving exam much more quickly.
One commentator said: “The findings shouldn’t be given too much consideration, after all there are a lot of non-gaming learner drivers that all boast passing the theory test and practical driving exam first time round. It could just be pure coincidence that a number of avid gamers happen to be able to achieve a first time pass; it’s not necessarily a fact.â€
The commentator added: “Perhaps what’s more factual is that more gamers are involved in motoring accidents. Therefore, we should not be giving credit to gamers for passing the theory test and practical exam the focus should be on preventing them being involved in accidents. After all, are driving simulation games really helping them in the long-term?â€
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…