Road safety specialist GEM Motoring Assist is championing the Government’s new road safety strategy as a game-changing opportunity to protect young and novice drivers – a group still overrepresented in serious crashes.
The strategy embraces a Safe System approach: people make mistakes, but smart road design, clear rules, effective enforcement and advanced vehicle technology should stop those mistakes from becoming tragedies.
A key proposal? Introducing a minimum learning period of three to six months before learners can take their practical test, supported by a structured syllabus and mandatory practice hours.
James Luckhurst, GEM’s head of road safety, is enthusiastic: “Drivers aged 17 to 24 represent just a fraction of licence holders but are involved in nearly a quarter of fatal and serious collisions. This strategy is our chance to rewrite that story through targeted measures for young and newly qualified drivers.
“Passing the test shows basic competence – not readiness for night driving, peer pressure, adverse weather or complex urban roads.”
The strategy also tackles distracted driving head-on. Learners who regularly see parents checking phones at the wheel are more likely to view this dangerous behaviour as normal. Families shape safety attitudes, so parents must lead by example.
Vehicle safety technology is another priority, with proposals to mandate advanced systems such as autonomous emergency braking, intelligent speed assistance, and driver attention monitoring.
“Careful, courteous, concentrated driving remains our priority,” says Luckhurst. “But when split-second mistakes happen, safer vehicles and well-understood technology can turn a scary moment into just that – not a tragedy.
“For anyone supporting a learner: make them life-ready, not just test-ready. Extend the learning period, prioritise safety when choosing a vehicle, plan structured post-test experience, set firm boundaries on phone use and peer pressure, and establish the non-negotiable rule that alcohol and substances never mix with driving.”
GEM Motoring Assist is the headline sponsor of the 2026 Young Driver Focus at London’s RAC Club on Wednesday 13 May.
FAQ’s…
Why is the new road safety strategy important for young and novice drivers?
The new road safety strategy is crucial for young and inexperienced drivers, who are more likely to be involved in serious crashes, and aims to lower these incidents through safer driving practices, improved driver education, and advanced vehicle technology.
What does the Safe System approach in the new strategy entail?
The Safe System approach recognises that people make mistakes, and it focuses on designing roads, rules, enforcement, and vehicle technology that prevent mistakes from leading to tragedies, thereby creating a safer driving environment for everyone.
How will the proposed minimum learning period benefit new drivers?
The proposed minimum learning period of three to six months, supported by a structured syllabus and mandatory practice hours, will give new drivers more time to gain experience and confidence, helping them become safer on the roads.
What role do families and parents play in promoting road safety for young drivers?
Families and parents influence safety attitudes by setting a good example, such as avoiding phone use while driving, and by supporting structured learning and safe driving habits, which can significantly reduce risky behaviours like distracted driving.
Which vehicle safety technologies are being considered to improve road safety?
The strategy considers mandating advanced vehicle safety systems such as autonomous emergency braking, intelligent speed assistance, and driver attention monitoring to help prevent accidents and turn split-second mistakes into safe outcomes.
