Computer Gamers More Likely To Crash

People who play computer games and young drivers are reportedly more likely to crash in their first year of real-life driving, according to a new study published by an insurance firm.

Recent research has shown that although more likely to pass their driving test first time, those who play computer games are at a much greater risk of being involved in a car accident.

It was found that around a quarter (27%) of new drivers have a crash within 12 months of getting their licence compared to around three-quarters (77%) of gamers. This figure comes in contrast to findings that state that regular gamers achieve a 73% driving test success rate as opposed to 58% across all test applicants.

“The figure for new driver accidents for gamers is worryingly high, suggesting over-confidence can lead to mistakes,” said Charlotte Fielding of Privilege.

“Managing a car and being a responsible driver is not a game and accidents in the real world can have serious consequences.”

“Our research shows that simulated driving experience gives learners increased confidence on the road.”

The suggestion is that gamers believe their virtual experience behind the wheel increases their confidence for the real thing but that could spill over into a blasé approach to driving, which can lead to car accidents and personal injury.

Men are said to be five times more likely to use computer driving games than women, with the latter preferring to do lots of preparation and real world practice before their test.

Road crashes are the biggest single killer of young people in the UK and worldwide. Young drivers are involved in in in four fatal and serious crashes, despite only making up one in eight driver licence holders.

Other data from the UK shows that:

- An 18-year-old driver is more than three times as likely to be involved in a crash as a 48 year-old
- One in five new drivers has a crash within six months of passing their test.
- Young male drivers have much higher crash rates than young female drivers.

Despite these worrying statistics, Winn Solicitors knows that there are millions of responsible UK drivers out there. It doesn't matter to us how old you are, if you're a trustworthy driver and you've been in an accident that wasn't your fault, we'll get you the compensation you deserve. Call us today on 0800 988 6288

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