New Research Shows Many Drivers Unprepared for Challenges of the Road

August 25, 2011

Every year, GMAC Insurance, one of the largest auto insurers in the United States, conducts a study that examines drivers' knowledge of the rules of the road. The GMAC Insurance National Driver's Test has become a widely-respected litmus test of the general state of safe conduct on the nation's highways. This year's results, although a marginal improvement over 2010, still reveal a sorely-lacking emphasis on care behind the wheel for a large segment of American motorists.

Nearly One Fifth of Drivers Would Be Unable to Pass Written Test

In 2011, 5,130 licensed drivers from across the country participated in the GMAC Insurance National Driver's Test. Drivers were asked to answer 20 questions from state Department of Motor Vehicle licensure tests, with a score of 70 percent or below considered failing. The results were startling: approximately 18 percent of licensed drivers on the road would not be able to pass a driver's test if it were administered to them today.

Overall results were also divided by various demographic factors. It turns out more experienced drivers fared better: the oldest group tested, those between ages 60 and 65, had the highest average test scores. However, even new drivers fresh from driver's education, ages 16 to 24, scored higher than those between 25 and 34; 25- to 34-year-olds were far more likely to fail than any other age group. Men were also more likely to pass than women, with failure rates at 13.6 percent and 27.2 percent respectively.

Regional differences abounded as well: the Northeast had the lowest average score, while the Midwest outperformed other areas. Some states plummeted in the rankings compared to last year; Massachusetts' 2011 scores, for instance, placed it in 47th place, down from 38th just one year ago.

Lack of Knowledge Leads to Motor Vehicle Accidents

It comes as no surprise that deficient familiarity with the rules of the road can translate into real-world crashes. Some of the most common car accident causes -- like following vehicles too closely, failing to yield while making a left-hand turn, or making mistakes while merging into traffic -- could be avoided if drivers learned and followed basic safety guidelines.

Make a special point of brushing up on your driving knowledge this year, and if you have been injured by a negligent driver, contact an experienced car accident attorney. Your attorney can, of course, help you acquire compensation for your losses, but will also be able to help you hold irresponsible drivers accountable, making the roads safer for everyone.

Article provided by Eden Rafferty Tetreau & Erlich
Visit us at www.edenrafferty.com