Using horn after December 4th on the new driving test can be requested by the examiner whilst driving.
On the show me part of a driving test the examiner might ask:
“When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d operate the horn? “
According to rule 112 of the Highway Code:
Rule 112
- The horn. Use only while your vehicle is moving and you need to warn other road users of your presence. Never sound your horn aggressively. You MUST NOT use your horn
- while stationary on the road
- when driving in a built-up area between the hours of 11.30 pm and 7.00 am
- except when another road user poses a danger.
This now poses the question “How will a new learner driver view this breach of a Highway Code rule?” Since the sounding of a car horn is not complying with rule 112.
Here is a possible scenario;
The driving examiner checks all around the car whilst it is being driven by the test candidate. And it is considered, by the examiner, that the road is quiet enough to sound the horn. The test candidate should then carry out their checks to see if it is a safe time to operate the horn. The candidate thinks it is safe, just at that moment another road user (including a cyclist or pedestrian or car backing out of a drive) appears as the horn is pressed. In an overzealous moment the test candidate presses the horn too hard (test nerves are usually to blame!!!). A now potential road rage situation could be provoked, between the innocent road user and learner driver.
Learner drivers using horn whilst training
Driving lessons are normally taken by learner drivers prior to taking their driving test (there are a few exceptions). Whilst being trained the learner driver will be shown how the test is conducted and as part of this training will be asked to sound the horn. Imagine now 20 driving schools practicing ‘horn blowing’ throughout the day and early evening lessons? It is very rare for a new driver to get their techniques right first time, so every learner will need to try ‘sounding the horn’ a few times.
The thought of the local residents on a summer evening relaxing in their garden whilst having learner drivers practicing their horn techniques is mind boggling.