What Happens If You Are Involved in a Crash During a Driving Test?

Taking a driving test is already a nerve-wracking experience, but being involved in a car accident during the test can be even more stressful. Whether it’s a minor collision or a serious crash, knowing what happens next can help you navigate the situation with confidence.

While a crash during a driving test does not automatically disqualify a driver from obtaining their license, it can lead to various legal, insurance, and procedural concerns.

What Happens Immediately After a Crash During a Driving Test?

If an accident occurs during a driving test, the test will immediately be stopped, and the situation will be assessed based on factors such as:

• The severity of the accident (minor fender bender vs. major crash)
• Whether anyone is injured
• The circumstances of the crash (who or what caused it)

Once the crash has occurred, the following steps typically take place:

1. Checking for Injuries: The examiner will assess whether emergency medical assistance is needed. If there are any injuries, 911 will be called immediately.
2. Notifying Authorities: If the accident involves injuries or significant damage, the police will be contacted to file an official report.
3. Documenting the Scene: Photos may be taken of the damage, road conditions, and any factors that contributed to the accident.
4. Reporting to the DMV or Driving School: Depending on the state, a report may need to be filed with the DMV and driving school if damages exceed a certain threshold (e.g., $1,000 in New York).

Regardless of fault, an accident during a driving test must be taken seriously, and the proper procedures must be followed to ensure compliance with local laws and insurance policies.

Who Handles Insurance in a Driving Test Accident?

Since driving test vehicles are typically owned by a driving school or state agency, insurance coverage varies depending on the circumstances. The following insurance policies may come into play:

• The Driving School’s Insurance: Many driving schools carry commercial insurance that covers accidents involving their vehicles.
• The At-Fault Driver’s Insurance: If another motorist caused the crash, their insurance should cover damages and injuries.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): In no-fault states like New York, PIP may cover medical expenses for those injured, regardless of who was responsible.

In some cases, a student driver’s personal auto insurance policy may also provide coverage if they are listed as a driver on a family policy. However, not all policies extend to learner’s permits, so it’s crucial to review insurance terms before a test. According to Progressive, a student driver may be covered under their parent’s policy if listed, but exclusions apply in certain cases.

If multiple parties are involved, insurance claims can become complex, and seeking legal guidance may be necessary.

What If Another Driver Hits the Test Vehicle?

If a third-party driver causes the crash during a driving test, additional steps should be taken:

• The at-fault driver’s insurance may cover damages.
• A police report is crucial for determining liability.
• Witness statements, including from the driving examiner, can help establish fault.
• Medical evaluations are recommended, as injuries like whiplash may not be immediately apparent.
• Legal representation can help if the at-fault driver disputes responsibility.

Since the driver taking the test is under supervision and following instructions, they are often not held liable in situations where another driver was negligent.

Does a Crash Automatically Mean You Fail the Driving Test?

Being in an accident during a driving test does not necessarily result in an automatic failure. The outcome depends on:

• The cause of the accident
• Whether the driver followed the examiner’s instructions
• If traffic laws were obeyed before the crash occurred

If the accident was caused by an external factor (such as another driver running a red light or a mechanical failure in the test vehicle), the driver may be allowed to reschedule the test without penalty. However, if the examiner determines that the driver’s actions contributed to the crash, a failure may be recorded, and the applicant will need to retake the test at a later date.

Risk Factors for Young and Inexperienced Drivers

Young and inexperienced drivers face a significantly higher risk of getting into an accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), teen drivers are three times more likely to be involved in fatal crashes than drivers over 20.

Common risk factors for new drivers include:

• Distracted driving (such as using a phone while driving)
• Lack of experience in high-pressure situations
• Failure to recognize dangerous road conditions
• Speeding or risky driving behaviors

Additionally, cognitive overload—when a driver struggles to process multiple things at once—can be overwhelming for those with less experience behind the wheel. Research from Youth.gov highlights that overconfidence, peer pressure, and a lack of awareness contribute to higher crash rates among new drivers.

To reduce accident risks, many driving schools now implement simulator-based training to help students practice emergency scenarios in a controlled environment before getting on the road.

How to Handle the Stress of a Crash During a Driving Test

Even if no one is injured, being involved in a crash while taking a driving test can be overwhelming. Many new drivers experience anxiety and loss of confidence after an accident.

To rebuild driving confidence:

• Consider a refresher driving course to practice in a controlled environment.
• Use a driving simulator to gain experience in various road conditions without risk.
• Take extra practice time on the road before scheduling a retest.

Many driving schools offer support programs to help test applicants feel more comfortable before taking another exam.

Richard Barnes – President of The Barnes Firm

Richard Barnes: “As President of The Barnes Firm, I have dedicated my career to achieving justice in hundreds of cases for the victims of injuries caused through the fault of others. Additionally, I have been honored to have been elected Best Lawyer and a Super Lawyer”

Years of Experience: 30+ years
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