New drivers need more supervision

A driver licencing system for newly qualified novice drivers could make our roads safer

High-powered motorcycles may be restricted to older motorists under planned law changes. (Tobias Schwarz / Reuters)

Plans to increase the minimum age for riding a motorcycle could, if implemented, help to reduce the number of accidents on the roads. As The National reported yesterday, the head of the Federal Traffic Council (FTC) has proposed increasing the minimum age for riding a 200cc motorcycle from 17 to 18 years and for larger motorcycles from 17 to 21.

While the thinking behind this proposal is sound, there are further steps that could be taken and applied to young drivers of both motorcycles and cars.

Research shows that novice drivers are more accident-prone than their more experienced counterparts, primarily because they take more risks and may be more easily distracted while on the road. Newly licensed drivers also have to adapt to driving unaccompanied for the first time.

A solution for this could be to introduce a stepped driver licensing system that helps smooth the transition from learner driver to experienced road user.

Such a system could require those who obtain a driving licence for the first time to display special plates on their vehicle for a defined period after passing their test.

Similar schemes have been introduced elsewhere in the world and have proved effective in helping other road users identify relatively inexperienced drivers.

During this transition period, newly licensed drivers could also be required to adhere to more stringent traffic laws, such as restrictions on driving at night and lower speed limits. The same logic could also be applied to motorcycle riders.

In the UK, for example, novice motorbike riders must wear a special N-tabard to distinguish them from other drivers. The same country operates a “P” plate system for those car drivers who have recently passed their test. While the system is not mandatory, it is recommended by the driving authorities in the UK.

Many young drivers “unlearn” the lessons they have been taught at driving school as soon as they have passed their test. This has to change – increasing the minimum age for driving and introducing a transition period for new drivers could significantly help improve the safety of our roads.