Professional Lessons : Pre-Driver Education
An Early Introduction
In some areas, pre-driver education schemes are organised for young people who are not yet old enough to apply for a provisional licence. These are an ideal place for road safety professionals to speak to teenagers before they start their driving career to raise awareness about the dangers and responsibilities of driving, encourage good attitudes and behaviour, and sometimes also to introduce basic car control skills on private land under the supervision of an instructor.
It is important to remember that the purpose of these schemes is to educate youngsters about their responsibilities as drivers, and not to help them pass the Driving Test (when they are old enough) more quickly by giving them a head start on the mechanics of driving a vehicle.
You may find one of these schemes a useful introduction to driving for son or daughter. They can help to stimulate discussions about the high accident risk of new and young drivers and how these risks can be reduced.
Where Can I Find One Locally?
There are many pre-driver education schemes, although not all local authorities run one. Contact your local Road Safety Officer to find out what support is available to you.
In addition, RoSPA have compiled a list of the various Pre-Driver Education Schemes run by local authorities across the country.
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