Skip to main content

Recent research has revealed a concerning gap in road safety knowledge among drivers who obtained their licenses before the introduction of the theory test in the 1990s. Time for a refresher course, perhaps?

A recent survey has shown that 9% of older drivers are unaware of the national speed limit on motorways. Yes, you read that right—nine percent! The findings also indicate significant differences in road law knowledge between older and younger motorists. Guess who needs to hit the books again?

9% of older drivers unaware of the national speed limit.

9%%

19% of drivers aged 55+ unable to identify triangular signs.

19%

16% of drivers aged 55+ unsure about motorway lights.

16%

The study suggests that many older drivers could benefit from refreshing their understanding of driving regulations. Specifically, 19% of drivers aged 55 and older could not identify the purpose of triangular road signs, and 16% were unsure about the correct lights to use on motorways. It’s not like those signs have changed much, folks!

Moreover, a whopping 27% of older drivers didn’t know the correct action to take if they had to decelerate rapidly on a motorway, according to a report by the Express. You’d think that after all these years, some of this stuff would be second nature. Connor Campbell, a specialist at Independent Advisor Car Insurance, emphasized the importance of staying updated with the Highway Code, especially after the code changes in 2022. He pointed out that fixed penalty notices have significantly increased, making it crucial to regularly review the latest road laws. It’s not just about avoiding fines, folks—it’s about staying alive and well.

The poll results were concerning: only 13% of drivers over 55 answered all questions correctly, compared to 10% of drivers aged 17-24. Alarmingly, 67% of older drivers failed at least four questions, and one in ten got every single question wrong. Looks like the youngsters aren’t doing much better, though—time for everyone to brush up!

This research serves as a crucial reminder for all drivers, especially those who obtained their licenses before the theory test era, to revisit and update their understanding of current driving laws. Let’s get everyone on the same page, so we can keep our roads safe and sound. So, whether you’re a seasoned driver or a fresh-faced newbie, it’s time to crack open that Highway Code and get studying!

Try our Mini Quiz Below...

Fun Quiz Game

Mini Theory Quiz

Test your driving knowledge...

Lawrence B.
23 hours ago
10/10, couldn’t recommend more. Lewis was amazing, I learnt really quickly and passed first time.
Dylan A.
5 days ago
recommends
alex is a great instructor and very helpful and they are very inclusive and will take the time too gdt to know the learner and understand how they learn best and develop lessons around that.

all round fantastic experience amd would recommend
Dylan W.
24 hours ago
Great company and Ciaran was a great instructor!
Garry D.
11 months ago
recommends
Highly recommend Shift Driving School. They were an absolute pleasure to deal with from start to finish. Special shout out to my instructor Hassan, who taught me from scratch in just under 6 months. I had no previous driving experience at all and he talked through the steps and skills needed clearly, always supportively pushing me to be my best. Delighted to have passed at first attempt! Couldn’t have done it without the team at Swift and Hassan. Thank you!
plan V.
5 days ago
Alex is a great instructor and the team is very knowledgeable and well worth the money would recommend
Denise W.
2 years ago
recommends
I 10000000% recommend this driving school my instructor has been appsalutly amazing he had so much patience and really helped me through all my lessons then he recommend me a nervous course which really helped me as I really struggled with my nerve on my test but I finally done it and passed my test and I wouldn't have been able to do it if it wasn't for lewis so thank u sooooo much :)
Jordan W.
2 weeks ago
Passed quite quickly with the help from shift and my instructor paul . Very straightforward service with a easy to use app . Paul was a great instructor and I would highly recommend him and shift
Webdeco.
2 years ago
recommends
What a great company to not only learn to drive with, but to actually work with too. We would highly recommend Shift without a doubt.
Roma G.
4 weeks ago
Driving lessons from Simon were enjoyable and his approach sets you up well to feel confident and safe. We went at a pace I could manage on top of a busy work schedule. We ramped up lessons when it came to crunch time which helped me pass first time. He was very sick on my test day, poor thing, but still came to make sure I could do my test. Will miss working with him!
Rachel F.
1 month ago
Can't recommend Shift enough! I was nervous about learning to drive but Majid was very patient and really helped boost my confidence.