One of my favourite aspects of living in the modern media driven world are those moments where something totally ridiculous in the news catches your eye. This most recent example may indeed be in the running to take the crown as the greatest ever. It is quite a common occurrence these days for people not to pass their driving test (theory or practical) first time; it is often the case that it takes a few attempts. As I have said in the past, I do have numerous issues with this, but nonetheless that is the case. After the fifth attempt I am used to people either passing or giving up altogether. The theory test especially is vital to a thorough understanding of the road. It really is not that difficult to grasp, but then again it seems basic logic and common sense is slowly leaking out of the world these days.
But what if I told you that there is one individual that exists in the forcefield of the world who has managed to fail his THEORY test, not once, twice, or even three times? No, this special person has somehow found a way to fail his theory a record 107 times. Just read one more time what I just said. I promise you are not going blind or mad, you did read that correctly; 107 times. 107 times.
It is breakdown time!
The Theory Test
Two parts
Multiple Choice Section
Section includes basic questions about appropriate driving practice
Required pass mark for Multiple Choice 43/50
Hazard Perception Section
Section includes noticing possible hazards on the road using stock footage
Required pass mark for Hazard Perception 44/75
Cost
Cost of a single theory test: £31
Number of current failed attempts: 107
Total money spent on theory tests so far: £3,317
Once again I ask you to take a second to take in the gravity of what I have just said. An individual has spent the cost of both a used car and a years or so insurance on so far it seems failing at the easiest part of the driving test. The individual concerned is a 28 year-old from London – sadly that is the only information that exists. We shall call him Dave.
Scenario One:
In an attempt to explain this brain-boggling situation I have formulated some hypothetical scenarios. The first of these is that Dave is the kind of person who has never been one for book work, learning or any form of education in general. Perhaps Dave believes he does not need to study in order to pass the test. Perhaps he believes he is better than the law. It may be a case too that he is too lazy to study.
But surely the record number of failures would have prompted to give in and do his studying for the exam?
If this scenario is to be accepted, it must be assumed that Dave is sitting on a lot of money to be able to get away with this behaviour, but what if this is not true?
Scenario Two:
There is a strong chance that our new friend Dave really struggles with education and the absorption of knowledge. Maybe Dave really does try and studies extremely hard before his tests. Perhaps it seems that the theory test just keeps getting the better of him
If Dave really did struggle that much, surely he would make sure that he was ready to take (and pass) the exam before he actually went into the centre?
It seems that with both of these scenarios they seem to throw up many more questions than they actually answer. Until the identity of this mysterious 'Dave' is revealed, we shall never know the truth behind this act of crazy proportions.
This is the moment that I am sure you have been waiting for – it is time for this writer to stop with the pretence and bring to light his honest opinion. You may want to take a seat...
I am sorry but the theory test is REALLY NOT THAT DIFFICULT. As I have just said, it is nothing more than the use of simple logic and common sense. Human beings should be alert to danger as a natural instinct, which makes the hazard perception a piece of well rounded cake with the best icing ever. Not only that, but seriously, they have set the pass rate so low that I swear even an untrained monkey with the flu could pass the theory test.
Secondly, 107 times is just ridiculous. There must have come a point where 'Dave' realised that it was probably time to give up. After 10 attempts I would have given up. It seems that some people just are not made for driving. It is good economically for the driving industry but if he ever does pass, I am genuinely TERRIFIED of ever meeting him on the road. But then again, if he has managed to fail his THEORY that many times, I doubt he will EVER pass the practical element. And that is £62 per test. How much money does this guy have? Is he from a rich family? Does he have an amazing job? He must have to take the train to this amazing job if this is the case.
There is just so many things wrong with this situation that I cannot bring myself to write the words. For now I shall leave you with these images. What is your opinion on all of this? Am I wrong to get so angry at this man? Is it good that he is that dedicated to driving? Should he be commended?
For now I shall leave you.
Keep Driving! (well, those of you who have PASSED)
Peace and Love!