Driving test staff could get body cameras to stop violence

DRIVING test examiners could be given body cameras following a rise in attacks by failed candidates.

More than 300 DVSA staff suffered physical or verbal abuse last year, up from 198 during the previous year, according to the government agency.

Around two-thirds of attacks were carried out on examiners, with the rest aimed at vehicle testers and roadside enforcement staff.

The DVSA has launched a crackdown on the abuse, including trialling body cameras for front line staff. They will initially be given to roadside workers but could be rolled out to include driving test examiners, the agency said.

The DVSA also pledged to make abusive learner drivers take their next test elsewhere and to refer all threats and physical assaults to the police.

In one case a candidate who was asked to stop after committing a number of serious errors swore at the examiner and drove wildly across a dual carriageway. The examiner had to use dual controls to bring the vehicle to a halt. The culprit was banned from that test centre and will be supervised during any future tests.

Gareth Llewellyn, DVSA chief executive, said: “Our message is clear – whatever has happened, don’t take it out on our staff. If you do, we’ll press for the strongest possible penalties.”

RAC road safety spokesman Pete Williams said: “Examiners at the DVSA play a vital role in ensuring the safety of drivers and vehicles on our roads on a daily basis. It’s therefore disappointing to see such a marked increase in the level of verbal and physical abuse they are encountering from the very people they are trying to help.”