MIAMI – LeaseTrader.com conducted a study of 500 men and women that showed drivers with the most driving experience, more than 20 years, scored nearly 18-percent lower on driving tests than younger drivers.

The more driving experience people had, the worse their scores on the questions. Drivers of more than 20 years scored an average of 46 percent correct; between 10-20 years of experience scored 58 percent correct; and between 5-10 years 64 percent correct. Not one person scored every question correct and more than three quarters of the entire exam population answered four or more questions incorrectly – thus a failing grade.

In addition the study looked at differences in test scores based on gender. Men scored an average of 59 percent answers correct while women answered just 46 percent correct. The study’s subjects answered the same 10 sample questions found on written driving exams across the U.S.

Men had the most difficult time answering a question addressing the procedure for approaching a stopped school bus on the other side of a divided highway. Although most men said you should watch for children and be ready to stop, the correct answer is stop and wait until flashing red lights are off.

Women had the most difficult time with a question addressing the appropriate speed limit on primary and secondary state and federal highways. Although most women said the speed limit is 65 mph the correct answer is actually 55 mph.

“It may be time to take a closer look at the way in which we test drivers,” commented Dan Edmunds, Director of Vehicle Testing for Edmunds.com. “The United States has a far less rigorous training and testing process than many developed countries – and a much higher per capita rate of fatal accidents.”

Edmunds’ AutoObserver recently reported on University of Alabama at Birmingham ophthalmology professor Cynthia Owsley’s recommendation that driver vision tests also need improvement. For more on that, read https://www.edmunds.com/eagle/