Why is there a Hazard Perception Test

The statistics have long shown that the newer the driver, the more likely they are to be involved in accidents on the roads. This is probably because they are inexperienced as drivers, although they have passed their driving test. Like many things in life, experience is useful, and just by being on the road for a number of hours we develop our skills at driving and can become better drivers through additional practice of being on the road.

In the first few months after a driver has just passed their driving test, the driver may be particularly likely to be involved in accidents relative to more experienced road users.

This is where the hazard perception test comes in: it is designed to make learners, and the new drivers of the future, think about hazards and generally to be aware of what is on the road. The idea is that this will then help to reduce the number of accidents and those who are sadly killed or badly injured in road accidents in the UK.

Related Articles...

driving theory test
What to do at a roundabout
Roundabouts come in all shapes and sizes, but the basic rules that govern roundabouts are simple. However that doesn't stop people interpreting the rules and indicating and lines in all sorts...

Regular car checks to perform
In addition to the daily checks that you should perform on core elements of your car such as the tyres (see article entitled 'what to check on your car daily') there are various other elements that...

Online Driving Theory
Why use an online driving theory website when there are also some books in publication that will help you study for your theory test? Well, there are several advantages to online driving theory,...

When to use hazard warning lamps
Hazard warning lamps, are by their nature, lamps that you should not use routinely. However it is important to know when is the correct time to use them, and how to switch them on. They are...

What signs with a percentage mean
When you are driving in some places, the roads will be up and down in terms of gradient, which refers to how the height of the road changes as you move along it, just like on a hill. When you...

Theory test case studies
One of the relatively new elements added to the driving theory test is what is called the case study element. This was introduced on 28th September 2009, and there is one case study in the theory...

Why new drivers are more likely to be involved in an accident
It is a well known statistic that new drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents, and indeed insurance companies definitely know this as you'll see by comparing premiums as a new driver...

Tips on braking on snow and ice
Braking on snow and ice takes a lot longer than it does on a normal road in ordinary conditions. But you might be very surprised at how long it can take. Infact tests have shown that it can...

What to do at a box junction
The box junction is quite common but despite this there are a whole wide range of ways in which different drivers interpret what they are supposed to do at them so you will see different behaviours...

Things to look for when checking tyre condition
The tyres are extremely important elements of the car, yet many people do not think much about them when checking that their vehicle is roadworthy. However, in addition to checking the amount...


Back to home page of driving theory test questions