Calls for DVLA to introduce new restrictions on young drivers have intensified following alarming statistics revealed by a recent study. Road safety charity IAM RoadSmart examined DVLA data and found that young drivers, aged 17-25, accounted for more than one-third of dangerous driving endorsements. Specifically, 1,128 new dangerous driving endorsements known as DD40s were issued to this age group between January 1 and June 1. Despite comprising only 7% of all full licence holders, young drivers were responsible for 38% of all DD40s issued across all age groups.
These endorsements are issued when a driver’s behaviour significantly deviates from the expected standards of a competent and careful motorist. This includes actions such as speeding, reckless driving, disregarding traffic signals, and driving with known vehicle faults. The concerning trend also highlights that around 20% of drivers experience a crash within a year of passing their driving test, leading to nearly 5,000 fatalities or serious injuries in accidents involving young drivers in Britain in 2022.
IAM RoadSmart’s director of policy and standards, Nicholas Lyes, has called for the implementation of graduated driving licensing (GDL) for new drivers. GDL would entail placing restrictions on young drivers for a specified period post-passing their driving test, potentially including limitations on carrying passengers of a similar age. This proposed scheme, already operational in various countries like the US, Canada, Australia, and Sweden, aims to enhance road safety by promoting better decision-making skills and responsibility among young drivers.
While the Department for Transport (DfT) had previously considered implementing GDL in England, the assessment was paused in 2020 due to potential impacts on young people’s employment. IAM RoadSmart’s survey further revealed concerning behaviours among young drivers, with 31% admitting to capturing photos or videos while driving, subsequently sharing them on social media.
In response to the escalating concerns, a DfT spokesperson emphasised the government’s commitment to road safety and the development of a new Road Safety Strategy. As discussions continue regarding the potential adoption of GDL in the UK, stakeholders stress the importance of prioritising initiatives that enhance driving standards and reduce road incidents involving young drivers.