Car club provisions a road safety bonus, says IAM

5 July 2010

The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) today welcomed the announcement that an additional £40,000 in extra funding will be made available to support the development of car clubs.

Neil Greig, IAM Director of Policy and Research, said:  “Car club schemes offer many in urban areas access to cars, providing opportunities for those who couldn’t otherwise afford or find room for them, and they reduce congestion and free up parking for other residents.

“The environmental and congestion-busting benefits of car clubs are clear, but their frequent car renewal means better road safety as more drivers will be using newer, safer cars with the latest in modern crash protection and collision avoidance features.

“Car clubs, government and individuals should also be aware that this could mean an influx of inexperienced drivers on the roads. Driver training or drive-checks should be offered as part of the package to ensure car club members stay as safe as possible.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

IAM DriveCheck programmes, priced at £25, are delivered through a UK wide network of over 200 voluntary IAM groups, details of which can be found at iam.org.uk.

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ENDS ALL

1. The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) directly influences the driving and riding of more than 100,000 full members in the UK and Ireland. Established in 1956, the IAM is today best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving course, which is available to car, motorcycle and commercial licence holders. The IAM has grown to become the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, dedicated to raising driving standards, engaging with the road-using public and influencing road safety policy.  The commercial division of the IAM operates through its occupational driver training company IAM Drive & Survive.

2. A 2006 report by Brunel University, following an 18 month study, concluded that “advanced driver training produces safer drivers and lower accident involvement”, with measurable improvements in knowledge, skills and attitude.

3. In January 2007, the IAM established the Policy and Research Division to undertake research, promote practical policies, act as an advocate for safer roads, safer drivers and safer vehicles and encourage responsible motoring through education and training.

4. IAM Skill for Life programmes are delivered through a UK wide network of over 200 voluntary IAM groups, details of which can be found at iam.org.uk.