Since the 19th November 2018, The UK driving theory test has changed, with the hazard perception segment of the exam now including adverse weather clips.
The hazard perception test will now contain videos of snow, rain and other hostile weather conditions, in an effort to help learners deal with more real-life situations.
The hazard perception test examines a learner driver’s ability to watch a simulated journey and react to “developing situations” on the road. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) have declared the introduction of these new weather scenarios as a means to tackle the growing number of people killed or badly injured in road collisions.
Under these new changes, the DVSA will add 23 new scenarios to the test.
Jesse Norman, Road Safety Minister, said:
“The UK has some of the safest roads in the world, but we’re always looking for ways to make them safer.
“These new hazard perception clips offer more realistic driving conditions to test a learner driver’s ability, preparing them for overcoming the real-life challenges they will face on the road – something that should benefit all road users.”
In 2017, it was reported that there were 16,406 accidents in rain, sleet, snow or fog, with 205 of the accidents being fatal.
Of the 16,406 accidents;
- 15,042 accidents were in rain, 179 of which were fatal.
- 740 accidents were in snow, 9 of which were fatal.
- 624 accidents were in fog, 17 of which were fatal.
Mark Winn, DVSA chief driving examiner, said:
“Every year too many people are injured on our roads by hazards frequently encountered by drivers and we are determined to do more.”
The test modifications will also be applied to motorcycle theory tests from the start of December and then set to take effect on lorry, bus and coach theory tests from early 2019. So, be sure to warn family and friends, so they are fully prepared for their theory exam!
Source: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-46263870
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