EU Road Safety Programme a “missed opportunity” for driver training

20 July 2010

The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) is disappointed that a new EU road safety initiative has failed to take driver training into consideration beyond the learner test.

The EU Road Safety Programme (2011-2020), launched today, makes no mention of further training for business drivers either.

Neil Greig, IAM Director of Policy and Research, said: “This is a missed opportunity to highlight the benefits of a lifelong learning approach to driving. There is convincing evidence that further training makes drivers safer, and could be relatively cost-effective compared to some of the other suggestions which involve massive changes to cars and roads.”

The IAM welcomes the new Europe-wide focus on motorcycle safety that the programme brings, but still has concerns about proposals for post-test probationary periods which have yet to prove any long term benefit.

Greig added: “A common education and training strategy for safer roads will go a long way towards reducing the number of crashes involving foreign drivers here in the UK.  It is essential that training standards in the UK do not slip, and that the role of post-test and business driver training is recognised.”

ENDS

Media contacts:

IAM Press Office – 020 8996 9777

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

ISDN broadcast lines available

iam.org.uk

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.