New drivers could face a ‘minimum learning period’ of six or 12 months before being allowed to sit their driving test, under new proposals announced by the Transport Secretary yesterday.
New drivers could soon face restrictions
The radical change to the law is just one of a number being suggested by Patrick McLoughlin with the aim of reducing accidents caused by new motorists. Other changes under consideration include incorporating motorway driving into the learning process, banning new drivers from carrying passengers or night driving, or increasing the probationary period during which new drivers can have their licenses revoked if they accrue six or more points.
Mr McLoughlin announced the new proposals at a motor insurance industry summit, and explained that they aim to curb the death rate among younger drivers. “It is alarming that a fifth of people killed or seriously injured on our roads in 2011 were involved in a collision where at least one driver was aged 17-24,” he explained. “Improving the safety of our young drivers is therefore a real priority, and will not only reduce casualties but should also mean a reduction in the sky-high insurance premiums they pay.”
The new proposals, which have been met with a cautious welcome by motorists’ groups, will be detailed officially in a Green Paper, expected to be released within the next few months.