Young drivers have had to bear the brunt of shocking road traffic collision statistics and higher insurance prices for a long time. But why is it that dangerous driving is so frequently linked to younger drivers?
While lack of experience may have a part to play in why young drivers are more likely to crash than their older counterparts, young drivers also seem to face growing distraction behind the wheel, and this is bound to have an effect. We’ve explored some of biggest distractions facing young drivers today – and how they can be overcome.
Technology
Our phones are a bigger part of our lives than ever before – so it’s not surprising that there’s growing use of technology like smartphones behind the wheel. Whether it’s phoning a family member, sending a text, or updating social media – it can wait until the journey is over.
It’s illegal to use a handheld device while driving in any circumstance and doing so could earn a young driver six penalty points on their licence – enough to get your licence revoked if you’re in the first two years of driving - and a fine. Despite this, a large number of drivers have been caught using mobile phones behind the wheel, leading to calls for stricter punishments.
If you find yourself getting distracted by your phone while driving, there are things you can do. Firstly, turn off your phone while you’re in the car, or place it on ‘do not disturb’ mode until you’re safely parked. It’s also worth keeping your phone out of sight, such as in a bag or in your glove box, rather than on the seat next to you or in your pocket. While you might be keen to reply to that text as soon as possible, it can only take a second of distraction to cost you or someone else their life – so make sure you’ve pulled over safely before using your phone.
Alcohol and drugs
Similarly to texting and driving, there are penalties if you are caught driving under the influence of alcohol – namely, an unlimited fine, up to 6 months in prison and a driving ban for at least a year.
Despite these penalties, drink-driving remains an issue – but getting behind the wheel while drunk can easily be avoided. If you know you’re driving, avoid alcohol altogether – whether that means taking an alcohol-free alternative or turning down a trip to the pub.
If you need to drink, look at alternative ways of travelling, such as getting public transport, a taxi or even finding somewhere to stay overnight until you are sober and fit to drive. If you cause death through drink-driving, you could face years in prison – which hardly seems worth it for a few beers.
Similarly, you should never drive under the influence of drugs, even if they’re prescribed drugs. If you are taking prescribed drugs, you should take advice from your doctor and read the instructions before driving. If you’re caught doing this, you can be subject to a prison sentence, driving ban and a fine.
Peer pressure
It’s exciting when you pass your test and can finally drive yourself everywhere, so it’s natural you might want to take your friends out for a ride to show off your skills. However, peer pressure is another factor in the increased danger for young drivers out on the road. Peer pressure in the car can lead to speeding, driving aggressively, performing dangerous manoeuvres, and ignoring traffic lights and road signs.
All of these increase the likelihood of being involved in an accident and can increase the impact should an accident take place. For example, if you travel at 40mph in a 30 zone and collide with a pedestrian, they are four times more likely to be killed than if you were travelling at 30.
While it might seem important to impress your friends in the car, remember that you’re the one in the driver’s seat, and you’ll be the one dealing with the consequences should an incident take place. If your friends continue to pressure you, explain to them that you’re the driver and you’re choosing to drive safely. Alternatively, don’t let them into your car if they’re going to pressure you. It’s not worth losing your licence or causing a potentially fatal accident.
Passenger distractions
Peer pressure isn’t the only issue with having your friends in your car. Having passengers can bring plenty of other distractions – even if it’s just talking with them, rather than being pressured into unsafe driving.
Of course, you shouldn’t feel that you can’t have passengers in your car. Just be aware that having them there can add new distractions. Keep your focus on the road rather than your friend sat next to you – and if you have disruptive passengers, ask them to be quiet and respectful so you can drive safely.
If you’re new to driving, it’s normal to make mistakes. However, it’s also your duty to make sure you are driving as safely as possible. Your safety, and the safety of those around you, is the most important thing, so remember that whenever you’re in your car and distraction tempts you.
Correct at the time of publication. Information in this article has been gathered from various sources, therefore WiseDriving cannot be held responsible for any view or opinion expressed herein.
