More than half of UK drivers support new restrictions for young motorists, including passenger limits and nighttime driving controls, as road safety groups push for measures aimed at reducing serious collisions involving inexperienced drivers.
The debate has intensified after new research found that many motorists want stronger preparation for newly qualified drivers, including better knowledge of basic vehicle maintenance such as tyre safety. The proposals come as experts continue to examine ways to reduce the risks faced by younger people during their first months behind the wheel.
Drivers Back More Training And Vehicle Safety Checks
According to GB News, more than 80 per cent of UK drivers surveyed believe new motorists should demonstrate basic tyre knowledge before and after passing their driving test. The research, carried out by Bridgestone, found that more than eight in 10 respondents wanted learners to understand correct tyre pressures, tread depths and how tyre pressure monitoring systems work.
A further 57 per cent supported the introduction of Graduated Driving Licences (GDLs) for young drivers. These systems typically introduce temporary restrictions after a person passes their test, with the aim of helping inexperienced motorists develop safer habits.
Helen Roe, senior marketing manager at Bridgestone UK, said:
“The latest findings reinforce our belief that tyre safety should play a far greater role in helping young drivers develop safe driving habits from day one.”
She added: “We have seen some high-profile cases of preventable road fatalities due to defective tyres and we can’t stress the importance of knowing the tyre basics and carrying out some simple checks, which can be done in a matter of minutes.”
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Graduated Driving Licences Could Introduce New Restrictions
Graduated Driving Licences are designed to place temporary limits on newly qualified motorists. Possible measures include restrictions on carrying passengers of a similar age, nighttime driving limits, and stricter rules around alcohol consumption.
The Department for Transport has previously highlighted the higher risks faced by some young drivers. Data from the department shows that around one fifth of people killed or seriously injured in car collisions were involved in crashes where a young car driver was present.
Young men aged between 17 and 24 have also been identified as facing a higher risk of being killed or seriously injured compared with older drivers.
Northern Ireland is preparing to introduce its own GDL scheme on October 1. The system will require new drivers to complete a minimum six-month learning period before taking their test, alongside a six-month nighttime driving restriction for drivers under 24 after they qualify.
New learners will also need to complete a logbook outlining the skills and knowledge required to become a safe driver.
Government Says It Is Exploring Alternatives To GDL Rules
While some drivers and safety organisations support wider use of GDL schemes, the UK Government has said it is not currently planning to introduce them nationwide.
A spokesperson for the Department for Transport told GB News:
“Every death on our roads is a tragedy and our thoughts remain with the families of everyone who has lost a loved one in this way.”
The spokesperson added: “Whilst we are not considering Graduated Driving Licences, we absolutely recognise that young people are disproportionately victims of tragic incidents on our roads, and we are exploring options to tackle the root causes of this without unfairly penalising young drivers.”
The government position comes as policymakers consider other approaches to improving road safety, including education, driver training and measures targeting the causes of serious collisions.
Northern Ireland Prepares For New Driver Rules
Northern Ireland’s incoming scheme represents one of the most significant changes to new driver regulations in the UK. The planned restrictions will apply to newly qualified motorists and introduce additional requirements during the early stages of independent driving.
The Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has backed the introduction of the scheme, which will begin on October 1 with requirements including the learning period, logbook completion and nighttime driving restrictions for eligible young motorists.
