Despite 99% of drivers claiming they’re knowledgeable about the rules of driving, 98% failed to correctly identify 15 of the most common road signs, Tesco Bank found as it put their knowledge to the test.
Over half (55%) of drivers claimed they would perform easily if they had to take their driving theory test today, yet only 2% achieved a perfect score in the experiment, with 19% making at least three mistakes, which would translate to a majority of drivers being just under the pass rate for the theory test.
Further analysis revealed that two in three (68%) were unable to correctly identify the minimum speed limit sign, while well over half (54%) were unable to correctly identify a Left turn ahead road sign, and almost the same number (55%) failed to recognise a Zebra crossing sign.
Even the shape of road signs and their associated meaning proved a hurdle for respondents. Two-fifths (39%) were unable to identify that circular road signs denote a sign giving an order, and a quarter (24%) failed to correctly discern triangular road signs as being warning signs.
However, there were some road signs that a majority of drivers were able to identify. Over nine in 10 (94%) correctly named the No overtaking sign, and a similar number were able to identify the No U-turns allowed sign (91%) and the Pass either side for the same destination sign (88%).
That being said, more than a third (36%) admit they haven’t looked at the Highway Code since taking their theory test, and over half (53%) reveal they haven’t reviewed the Highway Code in over a year.
Alex Cross, Chief Customer Officer at Tesco Insurance said, “For many of us experienced motorists, driving has become second nature, and as such we don’t necessarily find ourselves reaching for the Highway Code on a regular basis.
“However, it is important to refresh your knowledge especially as it gets updated fairly often, so it’s worth looking through to ensure the safety of yourself, your passengers, and other road users.”
