20/07/2007

Following MPs’ proposals to introduce a minimum 12-month learning period for novice drivers, new research from Churchill Car Insurance reveals nearly three quarters (70%) of British motorists take at least a year to pass their driving test.

The report shows just 30% of drivers pass in less than a year, with a further third (33%) passing after one year. 8% of motorists admit having taken as many as five years to pass their test.

When it comes to lessons two thirds (64%) of learners require 30 or more sessions behind the wheel before passing, with just 10% passing after 10 lessons or less. 7% of motorists take more than 100 lessons to pass.

Frances Browning, spokesperson for Churchill Car Insurance said: “Learner drivers need to accept that an investment of time, money and commitment are necessary to make them fully-equipped and confident motorists. All learners are different and each will require a different level of practice to make them a well-rounded driver. This is especially true for younger motorists who will be yet to develop the confidence and risk awareness needed to be a really safe driver.”

“Our research illustrates just how prudent and necessary these new proposals are. If learner drivers, particularly those aged under 25, invest in their training, they will become better drivers, have fewer accidents, and help make Britain’s roads safer for all drivers.”

In response to the proposals for more rigorous risk perception training, Churchill’s research also looked at the different reasons learner drivers might fail a test:

1. Observation at junctions (21%)
2. Reverse parking (19%)
3. Reversing around corners (17%)
4. Parallel parking (12%)
5. Inappropriate speed (11%)
6. Poor use of mirrors (10%)
7. Inappropriate speed (10%)
8. Anticipating other drivers’ actions (8%)
9. Incorrect positioning on the road (7%)
10. Moving away safely (7%)

Browning added: “The research shows learner drivers fail tests because they simply haven’t mastered basic driving techniques such as observation at junctions and reverse parking. However, with more practise, they should become much more confident, able and safer drivers.”

“On this basis we fully support the Government’s intention to reform the driving training and testing system in order to make roads safer.”

ENDS

For more information please contact:
RBS Insurance Press Office
Tel: 0208 285 3277

2,478 people were surveyed on behalf of Churchill during January 2007.

Churchill Car Insurance
Find out more about Churchill Insurance and read the latest press releases by visiting the Churchill press office online.

Churchill is part of RBS Insurance and is wholly owned by the Royal Bank of Scotland Group. It offers car insurance, home insurance, pet insurance and travel insurance. Customers can find out more about Churchill car insurance and get a car insurance quote on this website or by calling 0800 032 4828.

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