How Arguing Can Affect Your Driving

As a new or learner driver, it’s essential that you are fully aware of how arguing can affect your driving

If you’re studying for your Theory Test, you may have come across several references to this such as the rule in the Highway Code about driver distractions, and questions in the Theory Test (see below for further details).

How can arguing affect your driving skills

Arguing whilst behind the wheel can seriously affect your driving skills. You will become less observant and more likely to fail to anticipate hazards, which may result in a collision.

Drivers who are distracted also find it difficult to control their speed and their distance from the vehicle in front, and also their lane position can vary drastically.

Know the law around driving and being attentive

There are general laws that require drivers to be attentive and not engage in distracting activities such as arguing whilst driving.

Distracted drivers could be charged with a range of offences such as:

dangerous driving
careless and inconsiderate driving
failure to be in proper control of the vehicle
driving without due care and attention depending on how badly the distraction affected their driving.

Theory Test Questions and how arguing can affect your driving

To get new and inexperienced drivers thinking about the consequences of arguing while driving, the UK Driving Theory Test contains questions that will help road users to understand how various distractions can influence their driving.

Do you know the answer to the following Theory Test question?

You have been involved in an argument before starting your journey. This has made you feel angry.

You should:

Start to drive, but open a window.
Drive slower than normal and turn your radio on.
Have an alcoholic drink to help you relax before driving.
Calm down before you start to drive.

Which answer would you give?

The correct answer would be number 4: calm down before you start to drive.

Rule 148 of The Highway Code

To drive a car or ride a bike safely you must concentrate.

Avoid distractions when driving or riding such as:

Loud music (this may mask other sounds).
Trying to read maps.
Inserting a CD or tuning a radio.
Arguing with your passengers or other road users.
Eating and drinking.
Smoking.

The advice given by the Driving Standards Agency (DVSA) as part of the Theory Test states that if you are feeling upset or angry you should wait until you have calmed down before setting out on a journey.