Statistics show that the death rate amongst young drivers has more than doubled in the last 4 years . With the startling figure that one in five young drivers will have an accident within the first six months of passing their test, leading online insurance broker www.motorinsurance.co.uk asks what the government is doing to help?

Over the past twenty years or so, the driving test and the legislation that surrounds it has been changed dramatically, making it harder and harder for youngsters to get on the roads.

1996 – Written Theory Test introduced, testing learners on the Highway Code
1997 – New Law introduced – if a driver gains 6 or more points in their first 2 years of driving they must re-take both the theory and practical test before being allowed to drive again
2002 – Hazard Perception Test introduced, to test candidates awareness of hazards on the road
2003 – Practical Test revised – vehicle safety / maintenance element added to the test.

A new GCSE in driving is soon to be launched, offering hazard awareness, risk assessment and impulse control testing, and is hoped to develop the skills needed for safe driving from an earlier age – before teenagers are even allowed to get behind the wheel.

Police in certain areas are trialling a new regime aimed at highlighting the consequences of reckless driving to youngsters. The new scheme offers an alternative to a fine, whereby drivers under the age of 25 arrested for certain traffic offences, can opt to take a driving course instead.

Recently, driving tests have seen an increase in cost, rising on the 1st April 2008 to £30.00 for the theory test, an increase of £1.50. The Practical test has gone up by £8.00 to £56.50 for a weekday test, and is now £67.00 to be tested at weekends. Hopefully, this should make youngsters think more seriously about whether they are ready to take their test, and work harder at passing when they do.

Other initiatives being considered include advanced driver-training courses, curfews at night for those under a certain age and a zero alcohol rule for novice drivers.

Paul Cosh, Managing Director for motorinsurance.co.uk, commented: “Young drivers should be encouraged to learn and grow as much as possible, the learning process shouldn’t stop just because they’ve passed their test. I spend time with my teenage daughters teaching them driving skills and discussing their attitude to risk”

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Notes to editors

Permission is not required to create direct links to www.motorinsurance.co.uk

www.motorinsurance.co.uk, operated by Hero Insurance Services Limited, uses a panel of more than 30 well-known insurers, including AXA, Fortis, Highway, Norwich Union and Zurich, so it can offer its customers some of the UK’s best value motor insurance policies.

It’s quick and easy to complete application form has been specially designed to provide insurers with the details they need to give the best quotes possible.

So, www.motorinsurance.co.uk customers do not have to spend hours in front of their computers filling out form after form, yet still get a great deal on their motor insurance.

CONTACT
Laura Downing
HERO INSURANCE SERVICES LIMITED
Tel: 01277 266033
Email: laura.downing@highway-insurance.co.uk