A new study has revealed the UK regions with the most dangerous newly qualified drivers.
Over the past year, the North West of England was found to have the highest number of new drivers making “major” mistakes which would see them fail a driving test.
Meanwhile, Wales is the worst place for drivers getting distracted, and Yorkshire and the Humber apparently has the most road ragers.
In contrast, the East of England boasts the safest number of new drivers.
The research, which highlights the dangers new drivers may pose to themselves and others, was conducted by navigation technology provider Garmin and road safety charity Brake.
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The companies are working together to promote the use of dash cams for new drivers, which can be used to improve their driving and potentially save lives.
The study found that more than three quarters (82%) of newly qualified drivers have made dangerous or serious mistakes in the past year, while almost two thirds (57%) would describe themselves as “good drivers”.
The biggest driving mistakes included distractions both generally and by in-car media, driving nervously, not using mirrors, speeding and road rage.
The study also found that two thirds (63%) of parents surveyed are more worried about their child passing their driving test than achieving an exam result.
Areas of UK where newly qualified drivers make the most mistakes
- North West – worst for nervous new drivers
- Wales – worst place for drivers getting distracted
- East Midlands – worst for not using their mirrors/scanning the road
- Yorkshire and the Humber – worst for road rage
- Greater London – second worst for young drivers not wearing a seatbelt
Areas of the UK where newly qualified drivers make the fewest mistakes
- East of England
- South East
- South West
- North East
- Scotland
Jon Oliver, managing director of Garmin UK and Ireland, said: “Our study has revealed a shared concern between parents and young drivers which shows just how dangerous our roads can be. Through Garmin’s Dash Cam series we’re able to offer an added layer of support and protection which can be tailored to all levels of driver.”
Joshua Harris, director of campaigns of Brake, added: “Installing a dash cam which provides proactive and reactive feedback can give young drivers and their parents peace of mind and help improve the safety of roads for everyone.
“The inexperience and over-confidence of young drivers makes them a high road safety risk, that’s why the increased use of dash cams, and policy measures like the introduction of a more robust, graduated driving licence, can help improve safety for all.”
