Young drivers responsible for over a 5th of all fatal or serious collisions in 2023

A new report reveals drivers aged 17 to 23 were responsible for over a 5th of all fatal or serious collisions (KSI) in 2023.

The Graduated Driver Licensing Monitoring Report 2023 also highlights how those drivers account for just 8% of car driving licence holders - meaning the age group is over-represented in collision statistics.

Another stark statistic from the report reveals that over 50 car passengers have been killed or seriously injured in 2023, while travelling with a car driver aged 17 to 23.

The report states that between 2019-2023, the most frequently reported principal cause for KSI collisions caused by drivers aged 17 to 23 was ‘Excessive speed’.

A Co Down Driving Instructor for NI Driving School, spoke to Downtown/CoolFM exclusively, following the release of the report.

Simon Bates from Bangor shared some of the reasons he believes are behind the high statistics: “When they pass their test, a young driver may feel invincible. They may get out behind the wheel of the car for the first time brimming with confidence, without the reassurance of an instructor sitting beside them. They may take more risks and put themselves and other road users in increased danger.”

He went on to say distractions can be deadly, especially for new drivers: “Even changing the radio station can take your eyes off the road, within that split second you can veer across the road into the path of oncoming traffic, you can veer into a hedge. You need to be very careful to make sure 100% of your focus is on your driving, rather than anything else.”

By the time the next report comes out, Mr Bates believes the use of technology could help make our roads safer: “The use of AI may help make our roads and our drivers safe in the future. But not only having cameras that look at other cars on the road, but to look at the driver’s behaviour, reporting back to either the police or insurance companies.”

Nearly half (47%) of KSIs that were caused by car drivers aged 17-23 occurred in the dark. The equivalent proportions in 2012-2016 were 35%, 30% and 48%, respectively.

Mr Bates tells us why this could be the case: “Possibly being irresponsible because there’s less road users around… Also doing lifts for friends, relatives, picking the up from parties or a night out. It can add to drivers taking more risks and putting themselves and other road users at danger.”

He gives advice to newly qualified drivers: “When people pass their tests, I always say you’ve passed your test, now you need to learn how to drive properly on your own.”

“As a young newly qualified driver, you’ve obviously reached the standard you need to pass the test. Take your time, don’t be distracted don’t use your mobile phone and never drink and drive. Always remember to keep 100% of your concentration on the road.”

You can hear more about this story on air: https://hellorayo.co.uk/cool-fm/

You can also vie the full report here: https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/graduated-driver-licensing-gdl-monitoring-report-2023