Pictured above: Stephen Nye
The introduction of new regulations for younger drivers could
improve their experience and reduce the number of car crashes on
the UK's roads, a lawyer with the Midlands' offices of Irwin
Mitchell has suggested.
Personal injury expert Stephen Nye, who specialises in cases
related to road traffic accidents, has backed the Association of
British Insurers' calls for a minimum one-year learning period for
new motorists.
According to the organisation, research has shown that three out
of four people believe such a period would be an effective way of
cutting accident rates among younger drivers.
The release of the study has also come as those taking driving
tests are now being asked to drive independently around a
predetermined route without examiner instructions. Stephen Nye said
both ideas could have a positive impact.
He said: "The statistics regarding the dangers posed and faced
by young drivers are sadly reflected in the work we do for our
clients. At any given time we are handling a wealth of cases in
which young people have been killed or seriously injured, or they
have killed or seriously injured other road users or
passengers.
"Very often the relative inexperience of a young driver, who
does not appreciate the dangers around or the consequences of
speed, is the main cause of the accident. An extended period of
learning would hopefully better prepare young drivers for the
realities of driving on our busy roads, so that they can modify
their driving habits accordingly.
"It has also recently been suggested that the driving test be
modified to include a period of independent driving. Collectively
these measures will hopefully help bring about a reduction in the
number of serious injuries and deaths on our roads."