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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!

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Nikki T.
1 day ago
Would definitely recommend Shift & my instructor Ciaran!

Shift were quick to come back to me with my initial queries and getting me set up with an instructor. The driving school app is really intuitive and easy to use which was great.

Ciaran was always calm, patient and made me feel at ease. He was happy to answer any questions I had, go over things I felt unsure or unconfident about and it really felt like he went the extra mile to make sure I was ready for my test.

I passed my test and feel like a confident driver thanks to Ciaran's support and guidance throughout.
Garry D.
7 months ago
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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!
Pottsi P.
3 weeks ago
Found an instructor quickly. Julie was a fantastic teacher all the way through and set me up perfectly to pass first time. Special shout out the guys in the office and to Lisa who squeezed me in for a few last minute drives before my test.

Highly recommend.

Tom
Denise W.
1 year ago
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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 :)
Abigail L.
1 month ago
10/10 experience learning to drive with Julie! She was patient and very lovely, she gave me the confidence I needed to pass my test. I really enjoyed each of my lessons and will miss them! I would recommend this school to anyone
Webdeco.
2 years ago
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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.
Izzy B.
1 month ago
I've had an absolutely fantastic experience with Shift from start to finish. I was assigned an instructor incredibly quickly after my first enquiry, and from the very first lesson to passing my test (first time with no faults!) I was supported incredibly well.

Simon helped me go from someone that had panic attacks after attempting lessons a few years ago, to being so confident behind the wheel that I have no reservations about going out and driving.

It was an absolute pleasure learning to drive with Shift and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone.
Lankaji L.
1 month ago
I had an excellent experience with Shift Driving School. My instructor, William Stanton, was professional, patient, and incredibly supportive throughout my lessons. He explained everything clearly, helped me build confidence step by step, and always made sure I understood not just how to drive, but why things are done a certain way.

Thanks to his guidance, I passed my test on the first attempt! I highly recommend Shift Driving School to anyone looking for a calm, knowledgeable, and reliable instructor.
Josh A.
1 month ago
Today I passed my test!! I've have really enjoyed my lessons with Shift! There was a little bit of a wait but now I know why. I passed first time with my instructor (I had two because my availability changed) and you can tell by the way all of the instructors are with eachother that this is just a great school. The app is really good too. Would definitely recommend Shift Driving School.
Emily A.
2 months ago
10/10 experience when learning made sure I was confident and cool ready for the test . Entirely grateful for the pass !!!very grateful for the help of Lewis as an instructor!!!