Whilst hazard perception skills will improve with exposure to challenging situations, you can increase your ability to detect and react to hazards by implementing a few tasks in your everyday driving.Īctively look for places where hazards may appear from This is why newer drivers are at a higher risk of being involved in a collision than more experienced drivers who are often more aware of changes in their driving environment. The more you are exposed to hazardous situations the better you are able to identify and manage potential hazards. As a new driver you may not always recognise hazards straight away or it may take longer to interpret the hazard and react safely. Hazard perception skills develop over time. With lots of practice and experience in a wide variety of traffic conditions our ability to detect hazards improves and allows us to safely adjust our driving to avoid a collision. Pot holes or damaged road surface What is Hazard Perception?

Traffic in adjacent lanes Different road surfaces can also affect your ability to control the car Weather conditions including fog, rain or sun glare Roadworks Reduced visibility makes it more difficult to identify hazards Some common driving hazards Other vehicles and pedestrians Hazards come in many forms including other road users, stationary objects or driving conditions. Often when you encounter a hazard you will adjust your driving to avoid a collision. Generally a hazard in driving is anything that will increase the likelihood of a crash. What is a hazard?Ī hazard is anything that is dangerous and could cause harm or damage. While there may be some debate over its validity and effectiveness it does provide a way for Vicroads to identify new drivers who need more exposure to challenging driving situations so they are better prepared for independent solo driving. The Vicroads Hazard Perception Test was introduced to the licensing process in 1996 to add an extra level of assessment to new drivers. During your driving test practice lessons your instructor will continue to look for ways to improve your hazard perception and situation awareness. Regular driving in a variety of conditions will also improve your ability to notice developing situations. Starting with your very first driving lessons your instructor will help you develop an overall hazard awareness. It is also helpful to understand how the testing process works. To increase your likelihood of passing it is important you obtain appropriate driving experience to improve your hazard perception skills. As part of the process of getting your licence in Victoria you are required to pass the hazard test before you can attempt the on-road assessment. It tests your ability as a driver to notice dangerous situations as they are developing and to react within an appropriate time. The hazard perception test is a computer based video assessment that you take at a Vicroads office. In this article our Werribee driving instructor explains how you can practice and be better prepared for the test If you are preparing to get your licence you first need to pass the Vicroads hazard perception test.

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