Car driving tests in England, Scotland and Wales are changing from tomorrow (4th December 2017). The new test will include the requirement to follow directions from a sat nav, answer vehicle safety questions while driving and perform different reversing manoeuvres. It will also feature a longer independent driving section [1].
Commenting on the changes, Jason Wakeford, director of campaigns for Brake, the road safety charity, said: “One in four drivers aged 18-24 crash within two years of taking their test, which is why a greater overhaul of the learning to drive system is needed to reduce needless deaths and injuries [2].
“A graduated driver licensing system, including a minimum learning period, mandatory training on rural roads and restrictions for newly qualified drivers ? such as a zero drink-drive limit ? will allow novice drivers to build their skills and experience over a longer period of time. This approach has dramatically reduced road casualties in countries including Australia and New Zealand, and could save some 400 lives a year if implemented in the UK [3].
“There is also the need for better and more affordable public transport, so fewer young people see starting driving in their teens as a necessity.”
Notes:
[1] Driving test changes: December 2017, Department for Transport, 2017
[2] Young drivers at risk, The AA, 2012
[3] Graduated Driver Licensing: A regional analysis of potential casualty savings in Great Britain, RAC Foundation, 2014
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