It’s no longer a secret that a number of drivers in Illinois have no idea what they’re doing behind the wheel of a car. According to the 2011 GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test, our state ranked 41st out of all 50 states. Our state’s average was a 75.8 percent, meaning that roughly one in four drivers on our roadways would not score well on a written driver’s exam if they were to take it today. Drivers with poor knowledge and awareness increase the risk that you will be involved in a car accident in Chicago and elsewhere in Illinois.”The GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test has become the benchmark for America’s driving IQ,” said Scott Eckman, chief marketing officer, GMAC Insurance. “All Americans need a refresher course when it comes to rules of the road and it begins with education. We’re hoping this year’s GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test results will inspire drivers to arm themselves with the knowledge they need to stay safe.”
Our Chicago car accident attorneys believe that our state’s drivers can do much better this year with a little studying and practice. Our state scored below the nation’s average by 2.1 percent. These dangerous driving habits of ours can be reversed with the right mindset. Drivers are urged to familiarize themselves with the current road rules and regulations in attempt to reduce the risks of a serious or fatal car accident.
Nationwide, the test scores revealed that approximately 20 percent of the tested drivers would be unable to pass a written drivers exam if they were to take it today. They were unable to meet the minimum requirements to get a driver’s license in their state. This 20 percent equates nearly 37 million licensed American drivers on our roadways.
While our country’s score did increase from a 76.2 percent in 2010 to a 77.9 percent for this year’s average, the failing population still accounts for far too many drivers. After this year’s test results were released, it was concluded that nearly 90 percent of drivers were unable to identify what the proper action would be when pulling up to a steady yellow light. Another 25 percent of drivers were unable to identify what a proper following distance was.
Once again, Kansas took first place with an average state score of 82.9 percent. New York was bumped from last place, after 3 consecutive last place rankings, by Washington D.C. with an average score of 71.8 percent.
GMAC Insurance uses the National Drivers Test to remind all drivers that it may be time for them to re-up their driving skills as many of us “forget” what may be expected of us on our roadways.
The GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test concluded the following:
-Older drivers, or those ages 60- to 65-years-old, are some of the most knowledgeable on our roadways as nationally they averaged the highest test scores at 80.3 percent.
-Men tested better than women. Women only returned an average test score of 74.1 percent while men averaged at an 80.2 percent.
-The Northeast region of the county has some of the worst drivers, or at least the worst test average. They submitted an average test score of 74.9 percent.
-The Midwest region of the country had some of the highest test scores as they averaged a score of 77.5 percent.
-After three years in last place, New York moved to 45th place in the country. Last place is now held by Washington D.C.
-Wyoming had the lowest percentage of failures. Only one in twenty tested failed.
Try taking the National Drivers Test for yourself and see where you score stands up against the country’s average.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, the personal injury attorneys and wrongful death lawyers at Abels & Annes offer free and confidential appointments to discuss your rights. Call (866) 99-ABELS. There is no fee unless you win.
More Blog Entries:
Chicago drivers need to stop crashing into buildings, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, June 9, 2011
Model’s Death in Chicago Car Accident Highlights Risk of Submersion, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, June 3, 2011
Memorial Day Weekend a Dangerous Time for Chicago Car Accidents, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, May 30, 2011