A recent study by the RAC Foundation suggests that the introduction of a graduated driving licence scheme could save many deaths on the UK’s roads. The likely stages would be:

New system

The report says that the first 1,000 miles of driving may be the most important for cutting the risk of an accident.

woman learner driver Drivers could also face a stricter drink-drive limit, under the proposals

So it is calling for a three-stage, graduated, system. New drivers would face restrictions for four years:

Stage one

A one-year minimum driving period, before the test is taken. Drivers would need to experience a wide range of conditions, including winter driving and night driving.

Stage two

After the test is taken, drivers would face restrictions for a further year. The number of passengers they could carry might be limited, and night driving might also be restricted.

Stage three

A further two-year probationary period. If during the period a driver receives six penalty points, they would have to take a re-test.

The Foundation would also like to see a stricter drink-drive limit.

At the moment the legal maximum is 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood.

But this figure could be reduced to 50mg.

via BBC News – Driving licences should be graduated, says RAC Foundation.

Anything that can be done to reduce road casualties must be a positive thing. Such a scheme though may not please learner drivers but, if the impact is reduced accidents, this should result in reduced insurance premiums. These cost, more often than not, more than the value of a new drivers car! That in itself should provide some comfort for our new drivers.