Drivers back plans for minimum learner period

The driving public - including under-25s - has spoken out in favour of a minimum learning to drive period to tackle young driver crashes.

A survey by road safety charity Brake and Direct Line reveals 84% of drivers agree we need a minimum learning period, while 69% of drivers under 25 are in favour.

Brake is also calling for post-test restrictions on novice drivers, such as a zero tolerance drink drive limit and a bar on late night driving and carrying mates.

The survey of 1,000 drivers by Brake and Direct Line also found:

• Widespread support for a range of post-test restrictions, including 70% support for a zero-tolerance drink drive limit for novice drivers, and 63% support for this from drivers under 25.

• Nearly nine in 10 (88%) think there should be a minimum number of hours of supervised driving for learners, with six in 10 (58%) thinking this should be at least 35 hours.

• Nine in 10 (90%) want mandatory lessons on motorways and in difficult conditions for all learners.

Julie Townsend, deputy chief executive, Brake, the road safety charity, said: "The Government has an opportunity to make a real difference to road safety and save a lot of young lives through reforming our driver licensing system.

“Death and serious injury on roads is devastating, especially so when it involves someone young, with their whole life ahead of them.

“Evidence on how to reduce young driver crashes is very clear; by introducing a system of graduated licensing we can expect to make real inroads to ending the devastation caused by young driver crashes.

“We're calling on government to take bold steps by introducing all elements of graduated licensing - including a minimum learning period and post-test licence restrictions - but without compromising safety by simultaneously introducing changes that would increase risk, such as a lower minimum driving age."

Gus Park, commercial director at Direct Line, said: "Young drivers make up only one in eight licence holders, but are involved in crashes that result in one in five road deaths and serious injuries.

“We believe that these statistics can be changed substantially through the implementation of graduated driver licensing.

“It would have a positive effect on the driving behaviour and habits of young people, particularly in the critical period just after passing their test, and more importantly, reduce catastrophic road crashes and save lives."