Learning to drive is a major milestone. It has many benefits, but it also carries risk. In 2024, nearly 5000 people were killed or seriously injured in collisions involving at least one young driver in Great Britain.
We know from studies about how the brain works that young adults are naturally more inclined to take risks and because hazard perception develops with experience, new drivers face greater risk on the road.
However, you can play a key role in helping your young driver to stay safe.
Driving safely is not only about controlling the car, but also about anticipating hazards. While hazard perception is taught during lessons, you can assist your young driver to strengthen this skill by asking simple questions. When you are driving or walking together, you could ask:
These simple conversations can develop the habit of scanning for hazards and thinking ahead.
You could also consider putting a learning plan in place. This means agreeing how much practice your young driver will do before the test. Try setting a minimum number of hours, including some night time and bad weather driving to prepare for different situations.
We know that young people are at greater risk when traveling in friends’ cars and may sometimes feel unsafe when riding with another young person, but they often do not know how to leave. Having exit strategies ready can help. Here are some ideas:
Young people copy what trusted adults do. Set the right example: drive at safe speeds, give other road users plenty of space.
Teenagers are quick to pick up habits, and research shows that if they think you use your phone while driving, even briefly, they are more likely to believe it is acceptable and do the same.
The first six months after passing a driving test is the highest-risk period for young drivers, when crash rates are at their peak. Evidence shows young drivers are safer when freedoms grow slowly.
One way to help? Create a driving agreement together. This sets clear rules and helps everyone stay on the same page. Your agreement might cover:
Research also shows that putting in place ‘if then’ plans can be effective. For example, agreeing actions such as:
You can make all the difference. By setting a good example, encouraging practice, and agreeing on clear rules, you can support your young driver or passenger stay safe.
For detailed insights, we recommend you read the RAC research report on this topic - More than a passenger.
The Protect Young Drivers website also pulls together research on the risks facing young drivers.
If you or your young driver has passed but would like more guidance, IAM RoadSmart offers Young Driver Assessments. These are relaxed, one-to-one sessions with a qualified expert. There is no test and no pass or fail. Instead, the attendee will receive supportive feedback and practical tips to improve confidence and driving style.
