When it was introduced in 2002, the hazard perception part of the theory test was considered one of the biggest shakeups in driver training since the original theory test was launched in 1996. However, now 16 years old, is the hazard perception theory test out of date? One insurance firm thinks it is!
Over half of new drivers reckon that the hazard perception theory test is not fit for purpose, according to a study by insurance firm, LV. The study found that 53 per cent of newly qualified motorists thought the hazard perception test was ‘out of date.’
Is the hazard perception theory test in need of a revamp?
Following the launch of a new practical driving test in December 2017, is the theory test in need of a revamp to better reflect modern motoring? The current hazard perception theory test contains clips featuring cyclists and horse riders, but LV’s study identified that new drivers didn’t think there were enough ‘modern’ motoring risks that featured.
41 per cent of respondents to LV’s study said that potholes were a massive omission from the hazard perception theory test, describing poorly maintained roads as an everyday motoring hazard.
Meanwhile, 33 per cent said pedestrians on mobile phones should be included, and a further 16 per cent said that children on scooters need to be featured as part of the exam.
LV’s study has sparked concerns among motoring experts, with 47 per cent of 1,289 new motorists questioned, claiming that the hazard perception theory test had not prepared them for life on Britain’s roads. 54 per cent of all 3,489 respondents surveyed said that driving hazards have changed and become more common.
Hazard perception theory test should be updated
Managing director of LV, Heather Smith, said that the test needs to be more relevant to modern motoring and should be updated.
She said: “Driving conditions have changed a lot since the hazard perception test was launched 16 years ago. New drivers told us that the hazards they experience aren’t featured in the test, contributing to them being unprepared for today’s roads.”
“We believe that all drivers should feel confident on the road, which is why we are calling on the government to update the current hazard perception test.”
Head of road safety at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, Kevin Clinton, said: In recent years, more accidents have occurred due to ‘modern’ driving hazards. For
example, year-on-year we have seen an increase in the number of incidents due to potholes.”
“Our advice to new drivers is to expect the unexpected. That’s why we are supporting LV’s call to make sure the hazard perception test is kept relevant so it better-prepares new drivers for the hazards they’ll face.”
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