Motoring experts are advocating for more rigorous practical driving tests in the UK to curb the incidence of road accidents.

They propose that all new drivers should be tested in challenging conditions such as darkness and adverse weather, aiming to enhance safety and reduce collision rates on British roads.

In Great Britain, over 70% of those passing their driving tests are aged between 17 and 24, yet this age group accounts for a significant proportion of fatal and serious injury accidents.

By the age of 23, nearly 40% of young British drivers have been involved in a road crash.

To obtain a UK driver’s license, individuals must pass both a theory and a practical test, typically lasting about 40 minutes. During the practical test, drivers demonstrate their ability to handle various road and traffic situations, excluding motorways.

Unlike the UK, several European countries mandate additional tests to ensure drivers are prepared for diverse driving conditions, thus fostering safer road behaviours.

For example, Swedish drivers must complete a compulsory drugs and narcotics course and a slippery road test to simulate losing control of a vehicle, contributing to Sweden’s notably low fatality rates per million inhabitants among EU countries.

In Finland, a stringent two-year licensing process includes mandatory skid-pan sessions and night-driving courses, reflecting their high standards in driver training.

Jake Smith, director of Absolute Reg, supports implementing similar measures in the UK, asserting they would significantly improve road safety, particularly for novice drivers.

He had the following to say:

Jake Smith Quote