Young Driver Safety
UK accident statistics reveal some alarming facts:
- Around 3,000 young drivers are killed or seriously injured on Britain's roads each year.
- It is estimated that as many as one in five of all serious road accidents involve drivers under the age of 21.
1 in 5 drivers crash within their first year of driving. Young drivers are more likely to be involved in high speed crashes, single vehicle crashes involving losing control, crashes in the dark and crashes when overtaking and negotiating bends.
Young drivers, especially men, tend to be over confident and are more likely to drive in risky ways: too fast, too close to the vehicle in front and dangerous overtaking. Young drivers consistently rate their own performance as above average and are more likely to regard ‘good’ driving as the ability to master the controls of the car at higher speeds.
Not only are young drivers more likely to crash, but they are allowed fewer penalty points before losing their licence. If a driver acquires six or more penalty points within two years of passing their first test, their licence is revoked. They must then obtain a provisional licence, drive as a learner (display a ‘L-plate and be supervised) and pass the theory and practical driving tests again.
What things should I be aware of and how you can help?
Driving at night: As young drivers have a high proportion of their crashes at night,
Carrying Groups of Friends: For the first few months after your son or daughter has passed their test consider agreeing a limit on the number of their friends they carry to just one or two if you are not also in the car. Passenger numbers can be increased gradually as experience is gained.
Speed: Young drivers are more likely to see speed as exciting. They are particularly prone to approaching bends too fast and to dangerous overtaking. Even keeping within the speed limit can be unsafe, for example on wet or icy roads or on narrow, winding rural roads.
Mobile phones: Whilst it is reassuring for young drivers to carry a mobile phone, it is dangerous to use it whilst driving and also is an offence. Ask your son or daughter to agree only to use their mobile phone whilst parked.
How can I keep my premiums down?
- Take out third party, fire and theft cover instead of comprehensive cover, as it’s cheaper. But remember, third party, fire and theft doesn’t cover the cost or repairing or replacing your car if you are at fault in an accident.
- Drive a less powerful car (in a lower insurance group).
- Drive a less valuable car under £3000
- Go for a second hand car to begin with
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