Chesterfield driving instructor 'can see the logic' behind graduated driving licence proposals

Chris Marples has been speaking to us about the idea

Author: Chris Davis-SmithPublished 15th Apr 2024

The AA is also calling for the introduction of a Graduated Driver Licence (GDL), which would put restrictions on newly qualified drivers such as no peer passengers for six months once they have passed their test.

An average of five people per day are killed on UK roads and 82 are seriously injured, but one in five young drivers crash within a year of passing their test and over 1500 young drivers are killed or seriously injured each year.

Research by the AA shows 72% of people would agree with the introduction of a GDL for new drivers.

Chris Marples is a driving instructor in Chesterfield - He can see why it's being considered:

"I think if they've got peers in their car, especially young males, they can tend to encourage the driver to drive faster than they should be doing, or mess about behind the wheel, so I can see the logic behind it in certain situations.

"Studies have shown that the part of the brain that's responsible for evaluating danger, doesn't fully mature until around the age of 25.

"So, even the seemingly most sensible 18-24-year old's may still pose a higher risk on the roads."

Further research by the AA also shows three quarters (76%) would also back introducing an eye test for the over 70's.

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