Government unveils new measures and proposals to improve road safety
This follows plans announced last month to introduce a deposit which is returned to the learner driver if they pass, encouraging them to take their test when they are ready.
Other measures to take priority in the government’s plan for road safety include funding to train young cyclists (£50m over four years to support Bikeability schemes) and extra money for police forces to crack down on drug drivers (£750,000).
Since its inception, more than 1.5 million school children have received training through the Bikeability scheme – and 275,000 children are expected to be trained during 2015/16.
The Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) for learner motorcyclists will be strengthened and there will be a consultation on a range of further proposals to support safer motorcycling.
Motorists who endanger lives by using hand held mobile phones while driving will face an increase from the current three penalty points to four, while the fixed penalty notice will rise from £100 to £150.
Commenting on the proposals, Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: "Britain has some of the safest roads in the world but we are always looking to improve that record. Today we are delivering common sense proposals that balance tougher penalties for dangerous drivers with practical steps to help youngsters and other more vulnerable groups stay safe on our roads."
Katie Beck
Katie joined Fleet World in 2012 as an editorial intern, following the completion of an English and American Literature BA from the University of East Anglia. She accepted a full-time position as an editorial assistant at the end of the internship period, and was promoted to the role of features editor in 2014. She works across the magazine and website portfolio, and administrates the social media channels.
