New dangers for new drivers: How Britain's roads have changed in the last 40 years

New dangers for new drivers: How Britain's roads have changed in the last 40 years

Earlier this month, the BBC reported that Somerset Council is offering residents over the age of 60, free driving lessons to brush up on their motoring skills. The council has decided to offer these extra lessons as they believe the skills needed to drive on Britain's roads have changed considerably since the majority of those over 60 took their tests in some cases more than 40 years ago!

We spoke to driving instructors to explain the dangers that new drivers face and learn how they are better prepared to deal with modern driving.

The increased volume of vehicles on the road

Today there are approximately 33 million vehicles on Britain's roads, in 1971 there were significantly less. The dangers of increased vehicle numbers on the roads are numerous. Generally, the more cars there are on the road the more likely it is that there will be more accidents. More specifically higher numbers of cars mean it can be more dangers driving in towns and cities as many built up areas are far busier than they once were. Motorways and A-Roads are a lot more congested than they were 30-40 years ago, which presents new dangers. For example if you're constantly stopping and starting on a motorway your concentration can drop meaning you're more likely to have an accident.

Modern technology

In 1971 the most advanced type of in-car technology was a cassette player and an air freshener in the shape of a set of traffic lights that you had to prick with a pin to release the scent! In 2011 things are quite different as we are constantly bombarded with information from different sources. Mobile phones, iPods and laptop computers are usually all within arms reach, a dangerous temptation when driving. It's essential drivers remain focused behind the wheel. It's against the law to use a mobile phone when driving unless you are using a hands-free kit, simply because they are too distracting.

"All of our instructors are trained specifically to warn their pupils about the use of mobile phones and a-like when driving. We make sure they understand that firstly, it's against the law and could mean they loose their license straight away. Secondly and more importantly, we make sure they are aware of how dangerous and careless it is be distracted when you're in control of a car." Dominic Cohen, Red Driving School.

The improved driving test

In 1971 the driving test consisted of one practical test. Applicants were taken out with an examiner who would ask them to demonstrate certain manoeuvres and procedures. The applicant would then be scored against their performance and if the score was high enough they would be awarded their license.

Today's testing process has become a lot more thorough and requires the applicant to be much more prepared. Before drivers are able to sit the practical test they must first pass the Theory and Hazard Perception tests. Both tests are carried out on a computer and aim to assess the applicant's knowledge of the Highway Code. They also test their ability to spot dangers, before they happen, in common driving situations.

The practical aspect of the test has also significantly developed since 1971. As well as demonstrating the ability to perform set manoeuvres, applicants now have to show they can drive independently. If the driver performs well enough at executing the manoeuvres and demonstrates the ability to drive independently, only then can they be passed.

"The structure of today's driving test means pupils have to be much more prepared than they used to be, subsequently I believe this makes them much safer drivers. For instance driving independently requires much greater attention and awareness compared to following directions. The theory side of the test also means applicants have to extensively study the Highway Code and learn why certain rules are in place." Graham Adams, RED Driving School.

Conclusion

Due to the stricter safety procedures and improved testing new drivers are now better prepared to drive safely than ever before. Sadly our roads are now more dangerous than they were 40 or so years ago. However a lot more goes into training people to drive than it previously did. Hopefully this means new drivers are now better prepared than they ever were in the past.

Although young drivers are now better prepared than ever; it's safe to say by the time today's 17 year-olds reach 60, they might need a refresher to deal with a whole host of new dangers that will undoubtedly arise by 2054!

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