Preventing Road Traffic Accidents: A Brief Guide.
A recent survey carried out by the AA has found startling statistics regarding the supervision of learner drivers. 19,000 AA members took place in the survey and nearly a quarter of those asked revealed that they were unaware that it was illegal to use a mobile phone whilst watching over a learner driver. Around one in ten people also claimed that they did not know it was illegal to fall asleep whilst supervising a learner. The current law states that when you are supervising a learner you are responsible for the vehicle you are travelling in.
One driver was recently sent imprisoned for a period of two years after the learner driver he was supervising caused a crash which resulted in the death of two people. The AA have suggested that learner drivers should also have professional lessons as well as practicing with other experienced drivers. When learners sit beside experienced but non professional drivers it is common for them to pick up habits.
The study also shockingly reported that some supervising drivers were breaking the law by sending text messages, being under the influence of alcohol and falling asleep. Some were also guilty of failing to wear the glasses they usually wore for driving.
Around 23% of people questions admitted that they were not aware that using a mobile phone whilst being in charge of a learner is against the law.
4% of respondents admitted that they had broken at least one of the laws and this grew to 22% in the aged 21- 24 group.
When supervising a learner driver you are actually deemed to be in control of the car yourself. Lots of people are unaware of the responsibilities that come with supervising a learner driver.
Road safety group Brake are now hoping to get the minimum age limit for supervising a learner raised from 21 to 25.
The importance of being confident and competent when taking a learner driver out on the roads should not be underestimated.
The above pointers were aimed at reducing road traffic accidents. road traffic accidents solicitors Hattons can help with any claims.
October 6, 2010 | Posted by Paul Myers
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