People who pass driving test first time most likely to be in accidents, report says

Motorists who passed first time were more likely to describe their driving as 'perfect'

Those who passed third time round were more likely to describe their driving as “safe” and “cautious” (PA / PA Wire/Press Association Images)

"Overly confident" drivers who pass their test first time are more likely to be involved in accidents, a report has found.

A study by LV= car insurance, revealed those who pass their driving test on their first time are more likely to exhibit the “highest level of self-assurance” in their driving ability and describe their driving as “perfect”, potentially leading to “rash” behaviour behind the wheel.

Those who passed third time round were least likely to be involved in an accident and more likely to describe their driving as “safe” and “cautious”.

Those who took multiple tests were also significantly less likely to be pulled over for dangerous driving or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Eighteen per cent of the drivers passed on their first or second test had been pulled over for drink or drugs influenced driving, compared to nine per cent of those who passed on their third or fourth time.

The report, which analysed the driving records of over 2,000 motorists who had passed after a varying numbers of tests, found 66 per cent who failed first time said taking their practical driving test more than once made them a better driver.

Those who failed their first test said it was largely due to nerves and lack of confidence, which LV= car insurance said "may ironically mean they are safer once they finally pass".

Twenty-nine per cent who failed first time said they had learned from their mistakes and 27 per cent said they had become more skilled with the extra practice.

Selwyn Fernandes, Managing Director of LV= car insurance, said: “Are first time passers confident because they pass first time? Or did they pass first time because they’re confident? Either way, it seems that those who pass on their first attempt may be more rash once they take to the road.

“So if you fail your first time, you could take comfort in the fact that your natural nervousness or caution will serve you well once you get a licence.

“But what this study underlines is that no matter how good a driver you are, care and attention behind the wheel is the most important factor if you want to avoid any incidents and stay safe.”

The company added the study echoes advice from the Department of Transport, which calls on leaner drivers not to book their practical test until they are “road ready”.