A new Highway Code rule is confirmed for this year in a big shake-up set to impact ALL learners. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) plans to add new theory test questions that focus on life-saving first aid skills.
The DVSA plans to introduce a big change which will see learners learn how to perform CPR, how to use an automated external defibrillator and what to do if someone has a cardiac arrest at the roadside.
Mark Winn, DVSA Chief Driving Examiner, said: “Part of being a safe and responsible driver is knowing what to do in an emergency – how to step in and make a real, life-saving difference.
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“Learning CPR and how to use an AED is a very simple skill, and adding this into the official learning resource is a great way for DVSA to support the drive to raise awareness.”
Alicia Hempsted, car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, added: “Driving rules change often to reflect new technology, updated safety research and the way that we use the roads.
“It’s encouraging that many drivers are open to refresher tests and want to be notified about Highway Code updates, but our research shows a large knowledge gap remains.
“As the theory test evolves to place greater emphasis on practical safety knowledge, the findings suggest that many existing drivers may benefit from a refresher – especially as millions of motorists say they are not checking for updates.
“With defibrillators and CPR knowledge becoming more important in the UK driving theory test, road safety now goes beyond simple driving skills.”
A defibrillator gives a jolt of energy to the heart, which can help get it beating normally.
The devices are designed to be user-friendly, with clear instructions.
If CPR is given and a defibrillator used within the first minutes of collapse, survival rates could be as high as 70%, evidence suggests. Without it, fewer than one in 10 survive.
