Young drivers put at risk from outdated driving test

Influential motoring bodies are calling for the driving test to be reformed, as it does not account for the biggest risks facing young and learner drivers.

The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), the RAC and the Under 17 Car Club Charitable Trust have raised concerns that the current test does not do enough to gauge whether or not learners can handle the three main risks that new drivers face in the first six months of qualifying.

Learners are currently not tested on poor weather conditions, night driving or country roads, leaving newly qualified drivers consistently and dangerously ill-equipped to handle the realities of regular motoring.

In 2013 alone, nearly 200 drivers and motorcyclists under the age of 24 were killed on the road, with 20,000 suffering injuries. In an effort to prevent further accidents, the IAM have recommended a reformed driving test be considered, with best practice from other countries, such as Australia’s process of regular assessments, being taken into account to shape a new process.

Speaking on the test and the dangers faced by young drivers, RAC spokesman Simon Williams said: "Although overall the number of accidents is fortunately coming down, accidents involving young people are still all too common and disproportionately high in comparison to those involving other drivers.

"Preparation and planning are vital to ensure young motorists are equipped for whatever driving conditions they face, and it would be beneficial for everybody on the road to make sure the driving test is really fit for purpose and properly reflects the demands on all drivers that take it."

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