A learner driver has found themselves the subject of ridicule after crashing during a driving test in Impington, Cambridgeshire.
The accident, which occurred when the driver lost control of their silver VW hatchback and crashed into a traffic light, has sparked controversy due to the police’s response.
Thankfully, both the driver and the examiner walked away unscathed from the incident, although the crash caused significant damage.
Police Mock the Learner Driver on Social Media
The police, however, took to social media to poke fun at the learner’s mishap, posting a picture of the crashed car on their Facebook account, Policing South Cambridgeshire.
The post, which included a sad face emoji, joked about the situation, saying, “Sorry but it’s a fail on this occasion!” It continued, “We were called to Impington this morning after the driver of this vehicle, who was reported to be on their driving test, crashed into a set of traffic lights.
No one was injured… apart from pride maybe! £SaferCambs.”
Public Backlash Over the Post
The post quickly attracted criticism from many social media users, who felt the police were crossing a line by publicly humiliating the learner driver.
One comment expressed disappointment, saying, “This does seem to be rubbing salt into wounds.
If they were under the influence of drink or drugs, then fair comment, but nothing to imply they were.”
Others were quick to criticize the police for potentially damaging the learner’s confidence, with one person sarcastically writing, “Great job in destroying his confidence! Well done Policing South Cambridgeshire.”
Support and Jokes About the Incident
Despite the backlash, some followers found the post humorous and joked about the situation.
One user, using a laughing emoji, commented, “Yeah… If you’re going to fail, make it one to remember.”
Another user joked, “When the examiner said ‘Go straight at the lights*.”
There were also a few comments poking fun at the driving instructor, such as “The driving instructor should resign.”
Calls for Sensitivity in How Learner Drivers Are Treated
While the post was met with mixed reactions, some pointed out that the car involved in the crash appeared to be privately owned, rather than a driving school car with dual controls, which might have prevented the incident.
There was also some sympathy for the learner driver, with one person saying, “I think if I did that in my driving lesson or test I would’ve given up.”
Expert Weighs in on the Situation
Sue Papworth, a driving instructor and chair of the Cambridgeshire Association of Approved Driving Instructors, weighed in on the matter.
She explained that nerves or a lack of understanding could cause unexpected behavior during driving tests.
She also pointed out that there are no laws requiring a learner driver to use a car with dual controls during the test, as long as the vehicle is roadworthy.
Papworth added, “With or without dual control, the examiner would have done everything they could to prevent this.”
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