A striking number of drivers have a fundamental lack of understanding of traffic rules. For example, only 6 out of 10 know when to use their turn signals.
A new study reveals gaps in drivers' knowledge of traffic rules. For example, only 60% of drivers surveyed know when to use their turn signals.
The study, conducted by Kantar Sifo, tested 1,316 people, of whom 1,055 were drivers, on their knowledge of the traffic law. The results show that many drivers are unsure of even basic rules.
After answering questions about obvious rules such as seatbelt use and drink-driving, the error rate increased significantly. For example, 26 percent of drivers were unaware that they had to yield to traffic coming from the right at an unregulated intersection.
Similarly, almost a quarter (24 percent) were unaware that pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks. These results point to a widespread lack of understanding of basic traffic rules, which can have consequences for road safety.
The survey also uncovered uncertainty around lesser-known rules. Questions about engine speed, windshield washer fluid, and driving with a dirty windshield resulted in more incorrect than correct answers.
Rules regarding loose pets in the car, driving too slowly and missing a warning triangle also caused problems for many of the drivers surveyed.
– Sometimes you get the impression that some people follow their own traffic rules, and this can possibly be seen as confirmation of that. One can only hope that they drive safe cars and still show some kind of consideration for other road users, says Daniel Odsberg, sales manager at Kvdbil.
The study raises the question of whether drivers actually have sufficient knowledge of the traffic rules they themselves must follow. It is essential to ensure safe traffic for everyone that drivers have a solid knowledge of the legislation.
However, it's not just the traffic rules that cause problems for drivers. Cars – or rather the lights from them – do the same. 8 out of 10 drivers believe that they are blinded by a special type of light. Read more about it here .
