Proposed changes to driving regulations may soon prohibit new motorists in the UK from carrying passengers during their initial months behind the wheel.
Driving Plans May Ban UK Motorists from Carrying Passengers or Faced Being Removed from Roads
By Lydia Amazouz
Published on 7 October 2024 22:00
Experts are urging for new driving licence rules to improve road safety in the UK. One suggestion is to ban motorists from carrying passengers for a certain period after they get their licence.
New Driving Plans Aim to Improve Safety for Young Drivers in the UK
The RAC Foundation has contacted the Minister for the Future of Roads, asking the Government to introduce new rules aimed at younger drivers, according to GB News. Many countries already use a "Graduated Driving Licensing" (GDL) system, which has helped reduce accidents among motorists.
The RAC Foundation suggests that a similar scheme could help younger drivers gain the experience they need. This would apply to drivers aged 17 to 19 and require a minimum six-month learning period before they can take the practical driving test.
After passing the test, these young drivers would not be allowed to carry passengers under 25 for the first six months unless they are with an older adult. If they break these rules, they would face six penalty points on their licence.
According to the New Drivers Act 1995, this would lead to an immediate licence suspension and the need to retake the practical driving test.
The RAC Foundation has pointed out that drivers aged 17 to 24 are "disproportionately represented" in road accident statistics.
These younger drivers are involved in one-fifth of all road collisions that result in deaths and serious injuries, even though they make up only seven percent of all licence holders.
New Measures Introduced to Improve Safety for Young Drivers
In a letter to future roads minister Lilian Greenwood, the road safety group argued that their proposals would be more effective than other suggestions.
Some road safety experts have suggested banning younger drivers from driving at night, but this could significantly affect young people's job opportunities.
The scheme, known as "progressive driver licensing," has been suggested in Parliament by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater.
This is happening as Thames Valley Police starts a new program to help young drivers stay safe on the roads.
The Go Drive initiative includes a one-hour session with a 50-minute film and four fun activities based on how people behave.
The program will be available in schools, colleges, and community groups to reach more people and teach them about road safety.