Rules of the Road

On May 26th, 2011 the GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test results were released to the public, and showed that 1 in 5 drivers on the road today cannot pass the written exam to receive a driver’s license.

The test is available for anyone to take at www.nationaldrivertest.com, and after taking the test I found a few inconsistencies based upon state differences. Truth be told I only scored a 75%. When I first started driving I took the written exam in Missouri, and some of the answers I provided on the test were correct for that state. For example a question was asked about “what does it mean when there is a solid yellow line on your side of the vehicle?” The answer according to GMAC is no passing allowed or do not pass. The problem I have is that most areas in Missouri use white lines instead of yellow. Therefore, I was penalized for a regional difference. I encourage you to take the test for yourself, but remember that the results may be a little skewed because of regional differences

GMAC Insurance has also provided 5 of the top driving mistakes that cause crashes.
1. Multi-tasking While Driving
a. I will admit fault on this one because I am guilty of talking on the phone while driving. However, we should all do what we can to limit distractions and focus on the road.
2. Following Too Closely
a. A good rule of thumb is one car length for every ten miles per hour, therefore sixty mph should put you six car lengths behind a vehicle. GMAC advises to give at least a two second cushion between the vehicles.
3. Failure to Yield on a Left-Hand Turn
a. Look at where you are turning to make sure you aren’t turning into another vehicle or pedestrian. Also on a personal note ALWAYS use your blinker when turning or merging.
4. Incorrect Merging
a. Yellow is for yield, and drivers who interpret yield as stop can cause accidents. Use ramps for merging into traffic correctly.
5. Backing Up
a. Take the time to look before you back up. We have mirrors on all of our vehicles, let’s actually use them.


What do you think of their survey? Can you come up with some driving mistakes that cause crashes? Tell us what you think by responding on our blog.