17/10/2026
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU HAVE AN ACCIDENT DURING YOUR DRIVING TEST, BUT IT’S NOT YOUR FAULT?
This is a question many learner drivers ask! 👇
Imagine you’re taking your practical driving test, driving safely and following the rules, when another driver suddenly hits your car or causes an accident.
What happens next? 🤔
Does it mean you automatically fail?
Not necessarily. The examiner will consider the circumstances, including your driving and whether your actions contributed to the incident.
However, the fact that an accident wasn’t your fault does NOT automatically mean you pass your driving test!
🚦 Does the test continue?
It depends on the circumstances.
If it is safe and appropriate to continue, the examiner may continue the test. The examiner needs to assess your driving against the required standard, including your ability to drive independently and safely.
The test route and required assessment must be completed as far as the circumstances allow. If the test has to be stopped because of the collision, damage, injury or safety concerns, the examiner may be unable to complete the assessment.
👀 What will the examiner consider?
✅ Were you driving safely and at an appropriate speed?
✅ Were you keeping a proper lookout?
✅ Were you maintaining a safe distance?
✅ Did you anticipate the hazard where reasonably possible?
✅ Did you react appropriately to the other driver’s actions?
Even if another driver caused the collision, the examiner may still identify a driving fault if your own driving contributed to the incident.
🧠 THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER
Not being at fault for an accident does not automatically mean you pass — just as being involved in an accident does not automatically mean you fail.
Every situation is different. The examiner must consider what happened, whether it was safe to continue and whether there is sufficient evidence to make a decision about your driving.
If you are involved in a collision during your test, stay calm, follow the examiner’s instructions and prioritise everyone’s safety.
🚘 At Stoke Driver Academy, we prepare our learners for more than just passing their test. We teach them how to anticipate hazards, respond safely and handle real-world driving situations.
📍 Newcastle-under-Lyme & Stoke-on-Trent
