Book Theory Test Today investigates a worrying trend that’s rapidly surging among learner drivers.
Before even passing a theory test or practical driving exam, learner motorists are racking up penalty points on their driving licence. A recent study revealed that 53,988 motorists with provisional driving licences have penalty points.
Book Theory Test Today says: “It’s utterly astonishing that drivers who have not even passed a theory test, let alone a practical exam are receiving penalty points while taking driving lessons. Either driving standards are severely declining or those in authority are taking penalisation way too far.â€
Now, more than any other time since driver licencing in the UK began, motorists are more likely to lose their licence as a result of penalty points.
The study revealed that one in five learner drivers have penalty points predominantly for speeding or flouting red lights. For every five drivers out of the 53,988, two of them will not have passed the theory test.
Research also highlighted that one-third of people feel that it’s the driving instructor, or person accompanying the driver, that should be held accountable if learners are reprimanded. Furthermore, one in ten think that instructors, or those accompanying, should take the points – irrespective of the fact that it’s illegal.
Book Theory Test Today says: “It would appear that the primary factor for learner drivers receiving penalty points is excessive speed, according to a Freedom of Information request. Other factors include no insurance and careless driving.â€
In a statement from the director of policy at the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), Neil Greig, he said: “It’s incredibly astonishing that so many new drivers are accumulating points especially before officially passing their theory test or practical driving exam. The one positive aspect is that bad driving is being spotted and prosecuted.â€
A study conducted by Confused.com unveiled that 60 per cent of learner drivers without a theory test certificate or full driving licence were penalised for speeding. A further 43 per cent were punished for jumping a red light.
In a statement from Gemma Stanbury, of Confused.com, she said: “We’re aware that people might make mistakes along the way as they learn to drive, however practicing road safety is an important part of the process, and picking up bad habits such as speeding or jumping lights before officially passing your theory test or driving test is never a good way to start.â€
Book Theory Test Today says: “It’s clear that motorists are simply uneducated when it comes to penalty points. After all, one in three learners didn’t realise they could accumulate points while learning to drive. Furthermore, 40 percent did not know that if they amass six points in their first two years of motoring their licence will be revoked.â€
The study also found that over a third of all drivers in the UK have received penalty points at some stage, and 22 per cent of these admitted they had incurred penalties before they had passed their theory test or practical exam.
The results of the research have seen 17 per cent of people calling for a tougher theory test in order to make roads safer and educate learner motorists about the rules of the road.
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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