Learners ‘should have to prove they can spot potholes on road’, says AA

LEARNER DRIVERS should have to prove they can spot potholes to pass the test, according to a motoring organisation.

The AA wants poor road surfaces to be included in the hazard perception test because of the damage they cause to vehicles.

It also called for advice on what to do when drivers encounter a pothole to be added to the Highway Code.

One in five local roads in England and Wales is in a poor condition as councils face a huge funding deficit to tackle potholes, a recent report by the Asphalt Industry Alliance warned.

Hazard perception is part of the theory driving test. It involves candidates identifying something that would cause them to take action such as slowing down or changing direction in 14 video clips.

The pass rate of the practical driving test fell to a nine-year low of 45 per cent after changes to make the exam more realistic were introduced in December last year.

The AA advises motorists who spot a pothole to slow down, stay in lane and avoid big swerves. AA president Edmund King said: “It is a sad indictment of our poor road conditions that instructors are having to adapt their lessons to avoid potholed roads.”

The Government said the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) keeps the driving test under constant review to make it as effective as possible.