Safety group backs driving test changes
Date: 14/05/2008 12:00:00
A leading highway safety group has backed government plans to overhaul the UK practical driving test in a bid to promote "lifelong" driver learning.
RoadSafe said it welcomed the idea of modular testing and an additional course range covering driving in different conditions.
The Department for Transport plans are focussed on younger drivers and also aim to encourage commercial drivers to work towards new advanced driving qualifications.
RoadSafe said: "A vital component of that 'skill for life' concept will be the development, in partnership with employers, of vocational qualifications for all at-work drivers."
The government hopes to encourage some drivers to take advanced courses by convincing cover providers to offer
car insurance discounts.
Commercial drivers could also get financial or other incentives from their bosses if they prove they have passed tests aimed at older motorists.
Other possible new measures include driving instructors being subject to a star rating system based on how long their students usually take to pass tests.
RoadSafe aims to reduce traffic accidents through developing safer road and vehicle designs and encouraging the education of drivers.