More than two in three motorists believe all learner drivers should undergo at least a year of driving lessons before being able to take their driving test.
The support is for 12 months’ minimum learning for all new drivers, regardless of age.
The survey by IAM Roadsmart follows a 2019 government commitment to investigate a form of Graduated Driver Licencing, or GDL.
This could include a minimum 12-month learning period, although no final decisions have been made.
IAM Roadsmart now wants “urgent action” on the issue.
“The government must listen to the concerns of the vast majority of motorists who clearly understand the long-term safety benefits that a 12-month minimum learning period for all new drivers would bring,” said the road safety charity’s policy director, Neil Greig.
“Even the government’s own statistics show that one in five new drivers crash within their first year on the road, so a longer learning period can only help make our roads safer for all road users.”
The charity says evidence presented during a recent House of Commons Transport Committee Inquiry into young and novice drivers further demonstrates the benefits of Graduated Driver Licencing.
A move to GDL would be “a crucial step forward in improving road safety”.
What do you think? Should all new drivers have to undergo a minimum 12-month period of lessons and practice before taking a practical test? Let us know in the comments below
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