There will be learner drivers on motorways in Britain by June 2018 the government has announced. June 4, 2018 will go down as a landmark date in the history of driver training as part of one of the biggest shakeups in 60 years! The government’s announcement has been welcomed by road safety groups.
It’s been a long time coming, but at last the government has agreed to motorway driving for learner drivers! Road safety charity IAM RoadSmart welcomed the announcement, describing it as ‘common sense’, which would save countless lives.
From 4 June, learner motorists in England, Scotland and Wales can receive training on Britain’s motorways, but this excludes being taught by age appropriate friends and relatives.
What are the Rules for Learner Drivers on Motorways?
Learner drivers must be accompanied by a fully qualified, approved driving instructor, operating a vehicle with dual controls. Motorway lessons are voluntary and at the discretion of driving instructors if they deem a learner motorist competent.
Two years ago a consultation took place to open discussions about learner drivers on motorways. It wasn’t until August 2017 that plans were finally drawn up. Now, seven months later, the government has given the plans the green light.
IAM RoadSmart’s director of policy and research, Neil Greig, said: “IAM RoadSmart strongly welcomes this common sense change to the law on motorway driving. It has never made sense to us that new drivers on our most important roads learned how to use them by trial and potentially fatal error.”
“The government's insistence on the use of approved instructors and dual controlled cars is a welcome safeguard that will ensure consistent levels of training and a proper phased introduction to motorway driving skills,” Greig added.
Learner Drivers on Motorways Will Boost Road Safety
According to Greig, allowing learner drivers on motorways will help to cut delays and injuries, which blight Britain’s major highways.
The announcement couldn’t come at a better time, given that new systems such as smart motorways are being widely introduced. For learner motorists, it’s vital that they have access to motorways to keep knowledge and skill levels sharp as Britain’s road network involves.
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