Graduated driving licences receive widespread backing
Nearly nine in 10 motorists would like to see graduated driving licences introduced across the UK, according to a new survey.
Graduated driving licences were introduced in Northern Ireland this month, stipulating longer learning periods and restricting passenger numbers for newly qualified drivers.
The scheme has significantly reduced casualties among younger drivers in other countries, and a survey by Quotezone found that 85% of respondents supported its introduction in Great Britain as well.
Out of those questioned, 73% were in favour of new drivers facing additional restrictions during their first two years of driving, with a further 10% believing it should be for longer than just two years.
This comes as government statistics show young male car drivers aged 17-24 are around four times as likely to be killed or seriously injured compared with all car drivers aged 25 or over.
Greg Wilson, CEO at Quotezone.co.uk said: “The new Graduated Driver Licensing system in Northern Ireland does introduce a much more structured and practical approach to learning, highlighting key areas for improvement which are known problem areas.
“A longer supervised learning period, a detailed logbook and night-time passenger restrictions should all lead to positive change and give drivers more time and opportunity to practice high-risk aspects of driving. It’s a sensible step forward that hopefully other UK regions will replicate soon.
“Ultimately, any measure that helps new drivers build confidence and experience gradually with less distractions is a positive move forward for road safety across the UK and something we hope will help towards a reduction in car insurance premiums for young drivers.”
