Why hazard perception test was introduced?

New drivers are disproportionately involved in road accidents, especially in the first months after passing a Driving test exam. It has been proven that drivers who have taken Hazard perception test training have much better hazard perception skills.

About hazard perception test -

The hazard perception test tips are online computer-based tips, which measure driver's ability to anticipate and appropriately respond to potentially dangerous situations while driving.

In hazard perception test, you will see video clips of genuine, traffic scenes filmed from the driver's perspective. When you watch the clips, you need to imagine that you are the driver.

In each hazard clip there will be at least one developing hazard, but one of these clips will feature two developing hazards. As early as you can, you will need to watch the clip carefully and try to predict the traffic hazard. you need to respond straight away, as soon as you predict that a traffic hazard is likely to happen. A traffic hazard is something that would require the driver to take some action like overtake, slow down or change course.

Rather the potential hazards, the hazard perception test are designed to get the candidate to identify 'Developing Hazards'.

For example: School sign is not a developing hazard, but if you see school children about to cross the road, then it becomes a developing hazard and needs to be identified.

Watch out for following hazards, as these are the likely situations where developing hazard may turn in to actual hazard, while appearing for the hazard perception test

• Vehicles make the road narrow
• Junctions and roundabouts
• Horse riders
• Loose pets and farmyard animals
• Vehicles emerging from side roads, parking places or driveways
• Large vehicles moving over to your side of the road
• Changes in the traffic movement and volume
• Weather conditions of the day
• Pedestrians or cyclists crossing the road
• Meeting oncoming vehicles on narrow roads or where other obstructions or slow moving

Hazard perception test scoring mechanism:

Each scoring window is divided into five equal sections and a score of five through to one allocated to each. Those responding in the first section of the scoring window will score 5 and those in last segment a score of 1. Responses outside the window will score zero.

Scoring in hazard perception test is not difficult at all. You need to practice variety of clips and understand the DSA theory test.