Almost one-in-four motorists hasn’t picked up a Highway Code since they first passed their driving test, according to data gathered by Halfords Autocentres as part of its Roadworthiness Week campaign.
The nationwide servicing and repair chain surveyed over 22,000 drivers as part of the Halfords Autocentres Roadworthiness Quiz, which revealed the disturbing statistic.
A total of 36% of drivers confessed to not reading the rules of the road since passing their driving test, with one-in-five drivers (20%) admitting it was over a decade since they picked up the road users’ manual.
“Our Roadworthiness Quiz has produced some very interesting findings, including that some drivers could benefit from refreshing their knowledge of the rules of the road,” said Andy Randall, Halfords Autocentres Managing Director. “We’re passionate about road safety, which is why we want people to prepare ahead of the half term getaway.”
The quiz features 11 questions aimed at testing drivers’ knowledge in a fun, interactive format, and also aims to help road users understand some of the newer or less well-known Motoring laws. It can be found at https://www.halfordsautocentres.com/advice/news/quiz-how-roadworthy-are-you
As well as the Highway Code question, motorists can test their knowledge of ‘queue jumping’, find out the laws around windscreen washers and tyre tread depth, and also gain tips on how to ensure their car passes its MOT first time around.
“As well as being a bit of fun, our interactive quiz aims to broaden drivers’ knowledge and help keep our roads safer, as well as put road safety and preventative maintenance front-of-mind for those undertaking long road trips during the upcoming February half-term,” said Randall.
The initiative has also won the support of Highways England, which is very keen to keep the country’s network of motorways and major A roads running smoothly and safely during the first big getaway of 2019.
Richard Leonard, Highways England Head of Road Safety, said: “We want all drivers to arrive at their destinations safely, and we urge Motorists to make sure they are ready for their journey by checking their vehicles beforehand. Simple checks of things like tyre tread and pressure, along with making sure you have plenty of fuel and oil in the vehicle can all help to prevent breakdowns. This quiz will helpfully remind people about the importance of those checks.”
There are 85,000 breakdowns a year on the country’s roads, and of those around 40 per cent are preventable with better vehicle maintenance. Fewer breakdowns means better safety all round, for drivers, their passengers and those involved in recovery and incident management on the country’s roads.
To save drivers money and remind them about vehicle safety, Halfords Autocentres offers a free safety check: http://www.halfordsautocentres.com/car-care/free-safety-check
Halfords Autocentres is the UK’s leading MOT, car service, brakes, repairs and tyres specialist, with over 300 Autocentres nationwide. For more information or to book visit www.halfordsautocentres.co.uk.
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