Calls for DVLA to introduce new restrictions on young drivers have been raised following recent research showing that young drivers are responsible for more than a third of dangerous driving endorsements. According to a study by road safety charity IAM RoadSmart, which analyzed DVLA data, there has been an alarming increase in the number of dangerous driving endorsements issued to drivers aged 17-25.
Between January 1 and June 1 of this year, 1,128 dangerous driving endorsements known as DD40s were given to young drivers in Britain. This age group represents just 7% of all full licence holders but accounted for 38% of the total DD40s issued to motorists of all ages. The proportion has been rising, with figures showing an increase from 27% in 2021 to 36% last year.
DD40s are issued when a driver’s behaviour significantly deviates from that of a competent and careful motorist, such as speeding, driving aggressively, or ignoring traffic rules. This concerning trend highlights the need for additional measures to enhance road safety, particularly among new drivers.
IAM RoadSmart is advocating for the implementation of graduated driving licensing (GDL) for new drivers as a way to address the issue. GDL would introduce restrictions on drivers for a specified period after passing their test, potentially including limitations on carrying passengers of a similar age. Similar schemes are in place in countries like the US, Canada, Australia, and Sweden.
The call for GDL comes as road safety statistics reveal that about a fifth of drivers experience a crash within a year of obtaining their licence, and thousands of people are killed or seriously injured in accidents involving young drivers each year. Nicholas Lyes, director of policy and standards at IAM RoadSmart, emphasised the importance of enhancing driver training and experience to promote responsible decision-making on the roads.
Efforts to introduce GDL in England were previously considered by the Department for Transport in 2019, but discussions were paused in 2020 due to concerns about the potential impact on young people’s employment. Despite the setback, calls for GDL remain strong, as research commissioned by IAM RoadSmart has highlighted concerning behaviours among young drivers, including taking photos or videos while driving and sharing them on social media.
In response to the research findings, a DfT spokesperson reiterated the government’s commitment to road safety and the development of a new Road Safety Strategy. As discussions continue on enhancing road safety measures, the focus remains on protecting all road users and reducing the number of accidents involving young drivers.
As the debate on young driver safety intensifies, the need for proactive measures to address dangerous driving behaviours and improve road safety for all remains a top priority. With calls for GDL gaining momentum, stakeholders are working towards implementing strategies that will enhance driver responsibility and ultimately make the roads safer for everyone.