Twenty percent of drivers unsafe at any speed

"The GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test has become the benchmark for America's driving IQ," said Scott Eckman, chief marketing officer, GMAC Insurance. "All drivers need a refresher course when it comes to rules of the road and it begins with education. We're hoping this year's GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test results will inspire drivers to arm themselves with the knowledge they need to stay safe."

The national average score increased in 2011 to 77.9 from 76.2 percent last year, but still suggests many people on the road lack basic driving knowledge, resulting in dangerous driving habits. When it came to identifying the correct response to approaching a steady yellow light 85 percent got it wrong while only a quarter knew the accurate distance for following another vehicle safely.

The risk of accidents or merely causing accidents as a catalyst is exacerbated by a lack of critical driving comprehension and knowledge of the rules of the road. The GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test wants to remind drivers to review state driving regulations to minimize the risk to themselves and others.

Overall, males outperformed females with an average score of 80.2 percent versus 74.1 percent for females, Keith Griffin wrote on TorqueNews yesterday. Read the full story with tips on proper driving.

This is one place where being old an male is an advantage. The oldest drivers tested, ages 60-65, continued to have the highest average test scores at 80.3 percent.

One thing the information leaves begging is are urban or rural drivers better suited to the purpose? Who performs better in the other's turf? We'll keep an eye out for that tidbit of information.

Image source: GMAC Insurance