This section seeks to answer this question by examining what makes a ‘good driver’ and identifying where the skill gap currently lies. Skills are just one of the three elements of becoming a safe driver described below:-)

1. Technical skills
Mastering the technical skills of vehicle handling and positioning;

2. Road awareness
Learning the formal and informal rules that enable a driver to “read the road” and anticipate hazards; and

3. Attitude to the road
The manner in which the car is driven.

Technical skills

In practice, young drivers have relatively good vehicle control skills because they have recently received driving lessons and have fast reaction times. A lack of vehicle handling skills does not appear to explain the higher incidence of young male driver accidents.

Furthermore, despite the fact that vehicle handling errors during the driving test were more common amongst female drivers, accident data show that they subsequently have a lower accident rate than novice male drivers following the driving test.

Road Awareness

The saying “practice makes perfect” rings true for all drivers. Many young drivers overestimate their safety and ability on the road, due to their lack of experience and understanding of the behaviour of other drivers. Of the newly qualified drivers asked, two-thirds wished to improve their driving skills, and only half believed that they would be able to cope with any driving situation that might arise.

Newer drivers worried about situations that occur less frequently, and a large number were in some doubt about their ability to predict the actions of other drivers. Road awareness also extends to drivers’ appreciation of road conditions and ability to adapt their driving style where necessary. The relatively high percentage of young driver accidents that occur during adverse driving conditions, suggests that young drivers lack the judgement to reduce speed as necessary.

Young drivers know that they lack road awareness

‘Technical skills’ and ‘road awareness’ can be developed through improved tuition and greater road experience. Skill deficits only explain 50% of  accident involvements in younger drivers. Driver attitudes are the key in explaining incidences of accidents in younger drivers.

Attitude to the road

Driving attitudes are usually shaped by the psychological characteristics of the driver. 17-20 year-olds derive identity and empowerment from driving. Young males enjoy driving more, and are more inclined to drive for pleasure and seek thrills. They are more likely to assess their driving as decisive and confident compared with women, who are more likely to assess their driving as considerate and responsible. In contrast to older drivers, young drivers consider themselves as relatively intolerant, impatient,  and inconsiderate drivers.

Younger drivers view breaking speed limits as a much less important factor in causing road accidents than older drivers. They also develop a naïve confidence level in their driving ability, thinking that breaking speed limits is less important than not “driving too fast for the conditions”.

Combination of Factors lead to accidents

Attitude remains the most important determinant of an individual’s likelihood of having an accident.

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ABI Young Drivers

Road Safety and what makes a
‘Good Driver’