The Theory Test: Why is it important?

Reducing the risk of crashing

To improve road safety standards, the Theory Test was first introduced by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) in July 1996.  It is designed to improve the safety of newly qualified drivers by encouraging them to think carefully about the right attitudes needed to drive safely on today's busy roads and reduce the risk of crashing.

Most road collisions happen on urban roads where the speed limit is 30mph, or less. Failing to properly obey 'Give Way' and ‘Stop’ signs at road junctions is one of the most common causes of serious crashes. Disobeying road markings, turning right injudiciously or simply driving too quick for the prevailing road and traffic conditions are some of the main reasons for collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians or cyclists.

Reducing the risk of becoming a casualty statistic

As in Europe and the rest of the world, road traffic injuries in Britain are the leading cause of death, particularly among young people. Unfortunately, young drivers are far more likely to be involved in a serious road crash than other motorists.  Every day in this country, 4 people are killed or seriously injured in collisions involving new and inexperienced drivers.

Theory links with Practical

The theory test is designed to ensure that new drivers learn the system of rules and procedures that make up the theory of driving. For it to work effectively, it is important that new drivers do put their learning to work, not only on their practical lessons and driving test, but also when they drive unsupervised after passing. The number of serious collisions would be considerably reduced, if, after passing the driving test, drivers maintained good observation ahead, particularly at road junctions and also if they made sure that their speed is low enough to be able to pull up well the distance seen to be clear.

Education, Engineering and Enforcement

It is encouraging to know that the casualty rate in Britain is almost the lowest in Europe. Continuing education, for instance, road safety campaigns play a part in achieving this. Other important contributing factors include use of legal enforcement, such as speed cameras and better engineering of both the road environment and vehicle manufacture. Examples here include improved road surfaces, side impact bars and air bags.

Overcoming Peer Pressure

Newly qualified drivers are likely to experience a level of peer pressure to change from the safe driving style demonstrated on lessons and during the driving test in favour of risk taking. There’s nothing cool about the possible results of doing this.