Running red lights seems to be a particular problem in the US. Seems some drivers consider them advisory rather than compulsory. And yes - driving tests are far far too easy.
That said, even with higher driving test standards in the UK, the percentage of imbeciles on the road seems about the same. Lets face it - most accidents are caused by things unlikely to ever be caught in a driving test scenario - inappropriate speed, inattention and bravado.
sometimes when i'm slow in the shop, i watch traffic at the intersection outside.
neither road at this intersection is considered a main road, although they are heavily traveled during rush hours.
at any time during the day, on average, 3.....that's THREE cars run that light. not blowing the amber light, but AFTER it's clearly red. that's completley ridiculous.
as for driver training, i think it could be better. a large part of the problem that compounds poor driver training, though is the formation of bad habits, and knowing that once you have your lisence, you have it.
they should look at the FAA and what you need to do to keep your pilots lisence. under the age of 40, you take a physical every 3 years. over 40, you take it every 2 years.
regardless of your age, you take a biannual test. min. one hour ground, and min. one hour practical(in the air).
drivers lisence requirements should emulate this, for everyone, regardless of age.
this would help prevent bad habits from forming. people knowing full well that they hae to pass a couple tests in 2 years or less will be more attentive to what they're doing.
you know as well as me that 90% of the drivers out there would fail a drivers test if an instructor jumped in the car with them this morning without any warning to test them.
how many pilots can you say that about?
anyway.......
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