Members Newsletter

GDIA
Newsletter
Next Meeting & Links
Contact Us
Is your domain available?
 
Registration Includes:
- FREE POP3 Email
- FREE Web Forwarding
- FREE DNS Manager
- FREE Email Forwarding
 
The driving test and the way we learn to drive is changing
Consultation Paper "Learning to Drive" launched by Driving Standards Agency on 7th May

The following outline was prepared by Garry Handley from the Gloucestershire Road Safety Team

Over the past decade Britain’s roads have become much safer. The number of people killed or seriously injured in road collisions has fallen by a third, making road travel in this country safer than almost anywhere else in the world.

However, while we have made progress in reducing the number of casualties, our evidence shows that those most at risk are newly-qualified drivers.

DSA has worked with stakeholder groups throughout 2007. Talking to young people, Driving Instructors, Insurers, employers, safety organisations, etc. Evaluating research and the experience of others to develop a full understanding of the issues

The case for change

Since the mid 1990’s road casualties have fallen by 33%. Around 16% more drivers aged between16-19 are killed today compared with 15 years ago. Newly qualified drivers and their passengers account for one in 5 of car deaths in Britain. Young male drivers can be up to 80% safer after 2 years

But whatever the age, it is inexperience that makes people unsafe

The starting position

The driving test is currently in six parts:

Knowledge, Hazard Perception, Eyesight test, Show me, tell me, Practical test, General driving

Eco-safe driving will be introduced in September 08. EU Law sets out minimum test requirements. There are some 750,000 new learners every year

Too many people currently choose to opt out of the system and drive without a licence. Alongside unlicensed driving, there is a related problem of uninsured driving

The approach to reform

An improved learning process. Better information about driving instructors. An improved driving test.

Further options for learning

Learning to drive should not stop after the practical test, and lifelong driver development should be encouraged. The new system for learning to drive should be attractive enough that the vast majority will comply with the compulsory elements, and many others will take advantage of the voluntary options

Other approaches

Fundamental reform of driver training and testing. Additional regulation of the way people learn to drive. Various restrictions on some or all newly qualified drivers. Fundamental reform of driver training and testing

Improving the driving test

Using modern, objective, computer-based tests to assess understanding as well as knowledge. Amending practical driving test to provide a more thorough assessment of general driving competence and improving the feedback given to candidates

Ideas for revising the test:

Change the marking system Independent driving Situational judgement
Review the manoeuvres Modular assessment More detailed feedback


An improved learning process

A new competence framework. A new driver Syllabus to be given to all driving instructors to help guide learners in developing all of the knowledge, skills, understanding and attitudes needed. Introduce a student workbook to guide learners through their preparation and help them to choose a learning route which suits them.

Better information

Develop a Star-Rating system for instructors. Show the instructors who are committed to Continued Personal Development [CPD]. Introduce a ‘test readiness' certificate. Instructors to sit in on the test and improve the way instructors are registered and quality assured.

Further options

Attitude Advisor’ Simulators Discussion groups foundation course Theory Training
Learning materials Pre-driver ed Review Pass Plus drivers who offend Driving for work

Learners currently rely on their own judgement, or that of an instructor or supervising driver, to tell them where their strengths and weaknesses lie. Need to provide a more objective way to assess a driver’s attitude

Recently introduced law will allow courts to make greater use of re-education and re-assessment when dealing with people guilty of motoring offences. Re-education courses already exist for those convicted of driving without due care and attention, drinking and driving and speeding. This is a positive approach, which should be more widely used.

WHAT THE DSA ARE NOT DOING

Raising the driving age
People get in collisions because they’re inexperienced, not because they’re young

Making learners take a minimum number of lessons with an instructor
Learners in the UK take an average of 55 hours of lessons more than most other countries. And we want everyone to have the chance to practice and learn with a family member or friend. Almost everyone learns with an instructor.

Making learners learn for a fixed period
A minimum learning period, say 12 months, doesn’t make sure people take more lessons, or get more experience.

Putting restrictions on people after their test
Do you think that better training and testing is the best way to make young people safe?

HOW CAN YOU TAKE PART?

VISIT: www.dsa.gov.uk/learningtodrive

Don’t miss the opportunity to have your say
You have from now until 8 September 2008

Have you thought about how it affects you. Any comments please pass them on to the commitee.

This page is for you to put your opinion up for debate.Or make any comment you feel is relevant.
Please use the contact page or send an email to us at
gdia@cleevedrivingtuition.co.uk
 
Glos. Driving Instructors Association C/O 4 Ashlea Meadow, Bishops Cleeve Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL52 7WG
Tel:01242 679637 Fax:01242 679637 Email:postmaster@cleevedrivingtuition.co.uk
Copyright © Glos. Driving Instructors Association 2008
This site is created for all driving instructors Gloucester Driving Instructors Association