Would You Pass Your Driving Test Today?

Research has shown that nearly two thirds of UK motorists believe that they would not pass their driving test if they had to re-take it today. Car manufacturer Ford found that 67 per cent of drivers fear failure if they were to take the test today, with the figure rising to 73 per cent amongst 17-24 year olds. Twenty per cent of this younger age group also admitted to texting while driving. Other bad behaviours included changing the radio station or CD, which 60 per cent of respondents admitted to; driving with one hand (40 per cent); eating or drinking whilst driving (30 per cent) and talking on a mobile phone (10 per cent).

Picking up these bad habits has caused drivers to lose confidence in their ability to pass the strict testing method. Refresher lessons are available, however, and are recommended for drivers who feel they could benefit from some helpful reminders.

Interestingly, nearly half of the female drivers questioned believed that women are more talented drivers than men, with only one in five men interviewed believing this to be true. Women are generally perceived to be safer drivers, however, and this has been reflected in lower insurance premiums, as women tend to take fewer risks than men. Males aged between 17 and 24 are considered to be the most unsafe drivers on the road.

The survey also focused on which technology makes drivers feel safest, with airbags ranked top by 32 per cent of the respondents surveyed by Ford Surrey, and its stretch of the M25 is one of the least safe places to drive in Britain, while other unsafe areas include Slough, Bradford and Leeds.