At Wimbledon Driving School, we’ve been around the block a few times – and we mean literally. In our cars. We know all there is to know about what people need to do to qualify to drive, and get that coveted pink licence in their wallets.
The theory test is something that people – almost 100% of the time – aren’t particularly keen on undertaking, and this is due, in part, to the dreaded hazard perception test. It’s really not that bad.
How does it work?
The hazard awareness presents learners with a very well-rendered, computerised version of modern Britain. With a wide range of urban, suburban and rural driving scenarios, you will not necessarily see the sort of things you’re used to in Wimbledon or South West London.
The job is to recognise the hazard that arises in each of the fourteen videos (one of them has two, however), and recognise it as early as possible. This might include a slow moving vehicle about to pull out in front of you and obstruct your vision, an accident suddenly occurring or a large vehicle doing a U-turn in the middle of the road.
The trick is to observe the entire picture rather than just the bit that immediately concerns you.
What does it teach?
Introduced in 2002, hazard perception aims to teach learner drivers of the importance of awareness while driving. It allows you to think clearly not only about your own route to the shops or wherever, but the movements and routes of other road users too.
The overall outcome provides the learner with an important understanding of not only road safety, but level-headedness and consideration for others. And it works!
Why do you need it?
Without the awareness of others, the one-step-ahead forethought and the general zen-like calm that the hazard perception test aims to instil, you cannot be a good driver.
Though many people put driving skills down to things like moving really fast to get to the upcoming traffic jam before the car next to them, real driving skill is more subtle – letting you read the road and the situation before acting rationally, without any sudden, impulsive movements.
We know that this doesn’t sound very fun, but it actually is: calmness on the road makes for a far more smooth, enjoyable and stress-free drive. It’s also generally faster.
Wimbledon Driving School provides you with the rounded knowledge that you need to ace the exam – we have a set of fantastic tests for you to practice on online, and a very wide range of other resources.
