A QUARTER of drivers do not know how to react when traffic lights are out of action, according to a new survey by the AA. The motoring organisation discovered that out of more than 11,000 motorists quizzed, 28 per cent failed to realise no-one has priority in such a situation. Some 23 per cent thought traffic going straight on had the right of way, three per cent said it was those turning right and two per cent those turning left. The survey was carried out as changes to the driving theory test come into force on January 23 which are designed to try to stop learners memorising pre-published official questions and answers. In another question about traffic lights, when asked what a flashing amber light at a pelican crossing means, 18 per cent of drivers claimed it meant they should stop and wait for the green or red light. The correct answer, given by 54 per cent, was to give way to pedestrians already on the crossing, although 28 per cent said they would give way to pedestrians waiting to cross. Younger drivers, aged 18-24 were the highest age group to get this correct with 68 per cent answering correctly while only 41 per cent of drivers over 65 gave the right answer. Mark Peacock, head of the AA Driving School said: “Knowing the theoretical rules of the road is really important for drivers. “It’s encouraging that young drivers did better in the poll questions than older – perhaps a sign that those who have recently taken a theory test have a better understanding of driving theory than those who took it a few years ago. “Learners should not unduly worry about the changes to the test. The new test calls for greater understanding, which can be gained from professional tuition and some time spent revising; both of which would have been needed to pass the theory test confidently before the changes.” The AA Driving School has now published the following ten tips for learners sitting the theory test: 1. Boost your memoryUse mental associations by making lists and creating visual associations. For example for every road rule attach a visual picture to it, eg a mental 'snapshot' of a scene where the rule has been applied. And for every traffic sign imagine yourself taking the right action. 2. Repetition is keyOn test day you'll really appreciate all the work you put in going over theory information and practising your manoeuvres again and again. 3. Study with a friendStudies show that people learn faster with a study buddy, so team up with a friend and test each other with questions and tricky scenarios. 4. Observe other people drivingNot for tips (as people with licences may have a few bad driving habits), but to test yourself on real-life scenarios so you can think about what you would have done if you'd been in the driving seat. 5. Use relaxation techniquesEveryone worries that their minds will go blank in a test, so if you start to panic, focus on your breathing (most of us forget to breathe when we're nervous or scared). Take three slow deep breaths – this will calm the body, lower adrenaline levels and relax any tense muscles. 6. Don't pile on the pressureKeep the test in perspective. It's not the end of the world if you do something wrong or even fail. You can take it again. 7. Deal with stressDon't let stress drive you. If you feel panic creeping over you, slow down, take a deep breath, tell yourself you can do it and simply focus on the questions. 8. Get a good night's sleep before your testBeing tired can really affect your memory recall. 9. Read the questionsFocus on what the question is asking and don't be afraid to spend a few minutes re-reading to make sure you understand it. 10. Ask your instructorYour instructor is one of the best people to ask if you are revising for your theory test and come across something you are unsure of. Make use of your lesson time to ask anything that has you stumped. | 
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