New research by the Association of British Insurers (ABI) has revealed that the majority of those surveyed support radical new proposals to help stop young people dying or being seriously injured on our roads.

According to the survey:

•    76% agreed that there should be restrictions on young drivers after passing their driving test
•    71% supported restricting the number of young passengers that newly qualified young drivers are allowed to carry.
•    57% agreed with a minimum 12-month learning period before taking the driving test to enable young drivers to gain more supervised practice.
•    60% supported changes to the driving test and the way in which it is conducted.
•    60% of people asked thought that a combination of all four proposals would be effective in helping to make young drivers safer on the roads.
•    58% supported a restriction on night-time driving (11pm-4am) for newly qualified young drivers.

James Dalton, the ABI’s Head of Motor, said:

“Radical action is needed to reduce the tragic waste of young lives on our roads, especially among the 17-24 age group. A car is potentially a lethal weapon, and we must do more to help young drivers deal better with the dangers of driving. Our campaign for Safe Young Drivers is gaining momentum with a significant number of people supporting our proposals. Improving the safety of young drivers will also mean that motor insurance premiums will become more affordable for families with young drivers.

“We are calling on the Government to join the campaign and take these recommendations forward, helping today’s young people become tomorrow’s safe drivers.”