Yahoo News Older drivers could be slapped with new driving licence restrictions 'for six months'
Older motorists could face six-month driving restrictions as calls for new licence rule changes intensify. The AA has pushed for Graduate Driving Licences which would see younger motorists not being able to carry peer-age passengers.
The rules - which would also place strict curbs on night-time driving - would last for a minimum of six months after passing. But experts have explained the changes shouldn't be on an age basis, but instead on any new driver who has passed - regardless of age.
Peter Golding, managing director at FleetCheck told Fleet News: “Our argument is that all new drivers are inexperienced and represent a risk. If someone doesn’t pass their test until 30, they might not have the same statistical likelihood of being involved in an accident as a 17-year-old, but it would still be arguably irresponsible for them to be immediately allowed to drive a 3.5 tonne van or a powerful car.”
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The restrictions were previously been backed by MP Kim Leadbeater who introduced the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (New Drivers) Bill into the Commons earlier this year. Leadbeater told the Commons: "The Bill is not about taking away young people’s freedom or fun; it is about trying to save their lives. By giving them the opportunity to build their experience and confidence during the first six months of driving after passing their test, we can try to ensure they have a happy lifetime of driving and the future that they deserve."
A DfT spokesperson said in response to the calls “Every death on our roads is a tragedy and our thoughts remain with the families of everyone who has lost a loved one in this way. Whilst we are not considering Graduated Driving Licences, we absolutely recognise that young people are disproportionately victims of tragic incidents on our roads, and we are considering other measures to tackle this problem and protect young drivers."
