Post-licence training 'could improve road safety'

Date: 12/10/2011

A new system of training should be introduced for people who have recently passed their driving test, as this could help to improve road safety.

Such was the conclusion of the recent Institute of Advanced Motorists' (IAM) annual conference, where the group called on the government to offer accredited tuition to young licence-holders within the first 12 to 18 months of passing.

These sessions should be offered by qualified instructors, following an initial on-road assessment where any lack of experience or practical deficiencies the motorist displays could be monitored.

Coaching such as driving in wet weather, accelerating into bends and the effect speed can have on stopping distances should all be incorporated into this training, according to the IAM.

In order to encourage more young people to take up the course, the group suggests incentives are put in place.

These could include insurance discounts and cheaper vehicle tax.

Chief Executive of the IAM Simon Best says: "Post-test training with in-depth coaching on driving techniques and extra hours behind the wheel - with an experienced instructor - will prevent accidents."

From January 2012 the theory section of the driving examination will change, as questions and answers featured in the exam will no longer be made public for revision purposes.

Posted by Sarah Bailey