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The Hazard Perception Test. The Hazard Perception Test is the most recent addition to the tests a potential driver has to pass. It is taken at the same time as the Theory Test and you must pass both on the same day. The test consists of 14 video clips filmed from a moving vehicle, each around 30 seconds long. The idea behind the test is to assess a driver's ability to recognise potential problems on the road ahead. Each clip will include one scoring hazard (except one clip which will have two!) and the sooner you respond to that hazard the higher your score. You can score a maximum of 5 on each scoring hazard, so the test is out of 75 (15 scoring hazards) and the pass mark is 44. A Hazard is defined as anything which may cause you, the driver, to change speed or direction. However the Hazard Perception Test scores you on your ability to recognise a 'developing hazard', and the easiest way to define that is a hazard that is changing and becoming more of a problem (eg. a parked car on the left starts indicating to pull out). The best way to approach the test is to click the mouse button for every hazard that you see and then click again if that hazard starts to 'develop'. Experience of the test shows that most pupils do not find it too difficult as long as they press the button enough, people who have struggled with the test have usually been scared to press the button too much in case the software accuses them of cheating. Our advice is if you spot a hazard press the button, then as you approach the hazard or if it changes or if something else appears press the button again. The cheating detection software looks for detectable rhythms in your use of the button, so if you are responding to things on the screen there should be no rhythm and you should be fine. Your instructor will help you with learning to identify hazards and give further advice on the test during your lessons. |