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It is rarely just the young driver who dies, most
commonly it is a passenger with a driver who lacks experience.
1. We have now gained a mandatory probationary period
(he New Driver Act) but we still need 'P' plates to give a clear message to
drivers that they are inexperienced and reduce over-confidence on passing the
driving test. This counters the current attitude that they "know it
all!"
2. Plates would help police to identify the high-risk group which
is being targeted for accident prevention.
3. Plates promote the
concept of continued learning which will encourage novice drivers to take
further instruction.
4. They have the support of road safety
organisations, County Councils, magistrates, many driving instructors, women's
groups and young people.
5. A Transport Research Laboratory
Cohort Study shows that young drivers themselves consider plates to be a major
means of reducing road accidents.
6. Have massive public support, as
illustrated by the number of letters in favour received by MPs and the
Department of Transport over many years and the success of voluntary 'P' plate
schemes.
7. Allow parents of young drivers legal backup in controlling
the driving situations where the family car is used.
8. Reduce peer
pressure among the young and warn prospective passengers of the risks.
9. 'P' plates are no more difficult to enforce than Learner 'L' plates.
If drivers are picked up for an offence and are also failing to display 'P'
plates, then that is added to any other offences.
10. A graduated licence would encourage the concept of
"earning a licence" as novice drivers would receive a test certificate
initially with a full licence achieved on completion of the probationary
period.
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