Presenters: Dr Jill Weekley & Dr Shaun Helman from TRL (UK)
Hazard perception has been part of the UK driver licensing system since 2002, following extensive research demonstrating that this skill develops with driving experience and is linked to road safety outcomes. The hazard perception test was introduced to help ensure that new drivers can identify developing risks on the road before obtaining a licence.
In 2015, the original video-based hazard perception clips used in the UK theory test were replaced with high-quality computer-generated imagery (CGI) versions. While these modern clips provide greater flexibility and allow new scenarios to be created without real-world filming, their ability to measure hazard perception skill had never been formally validated.
In this webinar, experts from the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) will present the results of a study designed to assess whether the CGI clips can successfully distinguish between drivers with different levels of experience. The study compared the performance of experienced drivers with that of learner and pre-learner drivers using official hazard perception test materials currently employed in the UK licensing system.
The findings showed that experienced drivers scored significantly higher than learner drivers, providing evidence that the CGI clips have concurrent validity and can effectively discriminate between groups with different levels of driving experience. The research therefore provides important support for the continued use of CGI-based hazard perception testing within the UK theory test.
The webinar will also discuss lessons learned from the study, including why some clips performed differently than expected and how future hazard perception materials can be validated and continuously monitored. Participants will gain insights into current research, best practice in hazard perception assessment, and future opportunities to strengthen the relationship between driver testing and road safety outcomes.
FURTHER DETAILS OF INTEREST FOR PARTICIPANTS:
- Time: 25 February 2026, Time TBC
- Fee: This members-only event is free-of-charge
- Location: online
- Working language: English
- Registration: The deadline for registrations is 23 February 2027