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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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Mady S.
5 days ago
I highly recommend them. I had a driving lesson and a mock test, and both were professional and really helpful. The clear feedback improved my confidence, and I passed my test today! Thank you so much for all your help and support⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Caitlin Y.
6 days ago
I would highly recommend my driving instructor Simon Houghton! He taught me in ways that were completely different to my previous instructors, which really helped me build my confidence and improve my driving. He has a great sense of humour, which made every lesson enjoyable and relaxed. Most importantly, his teaching and support helped me pass my driving test! Couldn’t thank him enough. 🚗🎉
Vicki M.
1 week ago
From back in march when I phoned shift to start to learn to drive they were amazing was assigned a tutor quickly and have to say Lewis is amazing at his job put me at ease from the get go ! Was always calm and knowledgeable and adapted well to me being an older learner being late 40s and 6 months later I passed my test can’t thank Lewis enough for helping me get there quicker then I ever thought I would be can’t recommend them enough
Thanks shift team your the best out there
Jack
3 weeks ago
I booked my test in an area I was mostly unfamiliar with, so I booked three 2-hour lessons with Lewis to get used to the roads beforehand. It was definitely the right call. Lewis was really calm, patient and knowledgeable, and he took me around a lot of the places the test route might cover, so nothing on the day came as a surprise.

He also helped me iron out a few kinks in my driving, and his tips were clear and easy to put into practice. The car was great too, very smooth to drive, and it definitely helped me on the day.

I passed, and I definitely reckon I wouldn't have without him. I'd happily recommend Lewis to anyone, especially if you're taking your test somewhere you're not familiar with. Cheers Lewis!
Jonnie T.
3 weeks ago
Just passed yesterday with 0 driving faults. Thankyou so much to my instructor Paul.
Ellie L.
4 weeks ago
Great driving instructor, I would recommend to anyone!
Annie S.
4 weeks ago
10-10 driving school got me through 23 hours of lessons
Zachary H.
1 month ago
I passed my test yesterday and Simon my instructor was a huge part of that. He was extremely helpful and supportive, very approachable and always had time for my questions and queries. I’d absolutely recommend Shift and Simon to anyone who wants to pass their test and enjoy the process along the way!
Jack M.
2 months ago
I passed my driving test over a week ago through Shift and my instructor, Ciaran, was extremely helpful throughout the entire process. Would recommend for any learners who'd like to learn thoroughly and succeed in their driving test!
Dominic P.
2 months ago
Amazing service and Phil was a first rate instructor. I rang and had lessons later that week. I've had several instructors over the year but Phil made me feel at ease and taught me so many things of thers didn't. Passed my test after a few weeks of teaching. Can't recommend this school high enough. Thanks again Phil!