Major restrictions suggested for learner drivers

A NEW report on potential changes to young driver training could cut accident casualties by more than 4,000 a year.

The report, from transport research group TRL, recommends teenagers should not be allowed to take their driving test until they are 18, rather than the current threshold of 17.

They would have to have a 12-month "learner stage" beginning at 17 with a requirement for at least 100 hours of day-time and 20 hours of night-time supervised practice.

Having passed the test, they would then get a probationary licence and would have to display a green "P" plate.

Restrictions placed on them would include a night-time driving curfew running from 10pm to 5am, unless accompanied by a passenger aged over 30, and a ban on carrying passengers under 30 years old for all novice drivers aged under 30.

The report said that a ban on any mobile phone use, including for hands-free calls, and a lower alcohol limit should also be considered for young drivers.

After the 12-month probationary licence, drivers would automatically graduate to a full licence and unrestricted driving.

TRL said that this graduated driver licensing system could result in annual savings of 4,471 casualties and a saving in cost terms of £224 million.

It added that these figures only relate to 17-19 year olds and that if the system was applied to all new drivers the cut in casualties and costs would be "even greater".

More than one fifth of deaths on Britain's roads in 2011 involved drivers aged 17 to 24, and around 10% of novice drivers are caught committing an offence within their probationary period.

By Press Association reporter