New research suggests that a staggering 18% of UK drivers – nearly one in five of those in charge of a vehicle – doubted their abilities behind the wheel and felt that that they wouldn’t pass a driving test if forced to take one. And the proportion is even greater – 24% – for drivers over the age of 65.
The figures come from a survey of 1,000 British drivers conducted by Young Driver, which provides driving lessons for 10-17-year-olds.
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A surprisingly high number of drivers don't feel confident in their abilities
Among the other revelations are the fact that 28% of drivers said they struggled to parallel park, with a further 25% admitting that they avoided reversing into a parking bay (for women drivers, these figures increased to 36% and 30%, respectively).
More than a quarter of drivers (26%) also admitted that they often parked some distance from where they needed to be, just because the parking space was easier to get into; 16% also said that they felt nervous about parking, which increased to 26% for drivers aged 18-25 – worrying when you consider they presumably learned to drive relatively recently.
Turning in the road (three-point turns, in old money) was also tricky for 16% of drivers, who said that they need to make more than three manoeuvres.
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About a quarter of drivers don't think that they could reverse park
Unless you continue to use these techniques, the skills can quickly fade
Kim Stanton, head of Young Driver
Kim Stanton, head of Young Driver, said: “When you learn to drive you are taught specific techniques to help you get your parking and reversing spot on, every time.
"However, once you pass your test, unless you continue to use these techniques, the skills can quickly fade. Our new research shows that before long, several drivers are actively avoiding having to try, even if it means parking a long way from their destination and walking the rest of the way to escape certain parking spaces.
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28% of drivers struggle to parallel park
“We produced a selection of ‘how to’ videos to help our pupils, by giving them a chance to study the key techniques online before and after their lessons. However, it seems our new video training might be handy for mums and dads too, with several current drivers needing to brush up their skills.
"Tricky parking spots can often be avoided, however, what about when it comes to life-and-death situations such as emergency stops? Several of us say we can’t remember the last time we had to perform one in real life – which is obviously a good thing – however, are we confident we could do it correctly if the need arose?”
- Daily Express