Manoeuvre set by new driving test ‘contradicts Highway Code’

A “DANGEROUS” manoeuvre which instructors claim is against the Highway Code will be included in the new driving test.

Under changes in the new “L” test, starting next month, one of a series of new manoeuvres requires learners to pull up on the opposite side of the road, reverse two car lengths, and then rejoin traffic.

Antony Cove, a driving instructor, said: “This is an unnecessary and dangerous exercise. Every driving instructor I’ve spoken to is against this idea.”

Mr Cove, who launched an online petition that had gained 2,500 signatures by 7pm last night, claims that the manoeuvre contradicts rule 239 in the Highway Code, which states: “If you have to stop on the roadside, do not park facing against the traffic flow.”

Confused.com found that just 17 per cent of 2,000 motorists surveyed agreed with the new requirement.

The DVSA said: “The new test was trialled with 4,300 learner drivers and has the support of the driver training industry and road safety groups.”