"Appalling" casualty rate of young drivers needs tackling, say MPs

Date: 14/3/2011

The government needs to continue its efforts to curb the number of young people being killed or injured on the UK's roads, according to MPs.

A recent report from the Transport Select Committee proposed making the current driving test more rigorous in an effort to reduce accident rates, claiming that it is "essential" young drivers are thoroughly prepared before getting behind the wheel of a vehicle alone.

Louise Ellman, Chair of the committee, said: "What matters now is that the government publishes for consultation the changes it wants to make, with a timetable for implementing them before the next election."

Commenting on the report, the road safety charity Brake welcomed the proposals, but urged the government to publish its plans within six months in order to reduce the risk posed by inexperienced drivers.

It also suggested implementing a system of 'graduated driver licensing', where there is a set learning period, followed by time spent as a novice driver where exposure to high risk is limited.

This gives people the chance to build up their skills and experience on the road before they obtain their full licence, the charity explained.

Posted by Sarah Bailey