A LEARNER driver failed her driving test after workmen blocked a red light with their truck.
Instructor Gareth Wilson said he is "gutted" for his student, who couldn't see the lights until it was too late to stop.
She told him the vehicle had been concealing her view of the central reservation, meaning she drove straight through it.
Although running a red light is good reason for a fail, Gareth said he reviewed dashcam footage of the test in Hull, East Yorkshire, and claimed the woman had a point.
The 40-year-old told HullLive: "When she told me she'd gone through a red light I was a bit surprised but I thought it was fair for her to fail.
"When I saw the footage and how the vans were parked I was upset for her though.
"The vans were completely blocking the view of the lights, I couldn't believe how they were parked to be honest.
"Even an experienced driver would have struggled to slow down in time for that red light I think, but for a learner with all the nerves and focusing on the test it was impossible.
"The examiner was even apologetic. I don't blame them, there are rules and if you go through a red that is an automatic fail.
"I was just absolutely gutted for her. It has knocked her confidence and now she'll have to wait for another test and pay for it too."
The woman faces a three-month wait before she can try again – and she will have to fork out another £250 for it, as well as some refresher lessons.
Gareth said he feels sorry for other learners having lessons and tests in the Hull area – especially near the Stoneferry traffic lights – as they could well face similar issues due to all the roadworks.
After the result, he contacted the council "straight away" to warn of the issue that hundreds of potential drivers could be facing.
"I didn't get a response but there haven't been vans parked on the central reservation since," he said.
"I'm taking that as something of a victory which makes it a bit safer, but it doesn't help my student who now has to wait until next year before she can have another go at taking the test.
"I feel sorry for learner drivers around the city at the moment, it is difficult for everyone but especially for them with all the works.
"It isn't easy for anyone on the roads at the moment but spare a thought for all the learners who are having to deal with this too, it's pretty horrible."
The Sun Online has approached Hull City Council for comment.
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