Wednesday 23 September 2020, 0930-1100
Students from a selection of schools in England are to speak to
MPs on the Transport Committee about what can be done to address
the rate of road traffic collisions for young people.
Drivers aged 17-24 make up only seven per cent of total licence
holders but represent 21% of all car drivers killed and seriously
injured, according to the road safety charity, Brake.
In an online event, students from four schools in Barnsley,
Greater Manchester, Devon and Essex will share their views on why
traffic incident rates are higher for young people and whether
they think restrictions on their driving would reduce these
rates. Their opinions will inform the Committee’s inquiry into
Government action to reduce collision rates for young and novice
drivers.
The schools are:
- Barnsley College, Yorkshire
- Altrincham Girls’ School, Greater
Manchester
- Queen Elizabeth’s School, Devon
- Harris Academy Chafford Hundred, Essex
The students, aged 17-19 and a mix of new and learner drivers,
will be asked about a range of potential measures recommended by
road safety experts and campaigners. These include mandatory
learning periods, lower blood alcohol limits and displaying a ‘P’
plate following successful driving tests. Potential restrictions
on young and novice drivers could include limiting the number of
passengers in the car; not being able to drive during night
hours; a maximum speed limit and limiting the type of vehicle
available.
The event will not be broadcast but a transcript of the session
will be available in the following days and published on the
Transport Committee’s website. The information will be used in
the Committee’s inquiry into young and novice drivers.
In early September, the Committee heard from road safety
campaigners Ian Greenwood and George Atkinson, bereaved through
road traffic collisions, alongside academics and road safety
charities. A further evidence session is planned in October.
