Despite a belief that drivers aged 16-25 are responsible for more
crashes on world roads than any other age group, the majority of young drivers
still rate their own driving abilities as "good" or
"excellent", according to a survey in Western Australia.

The survey of more than 700 drivers aged 17-19 also revealed 71 percent
believed their driving ability was "better" or "much
better" than their peers.

The results highlight a disconnect between their understanding of road
safety and their own behaviour. It appears the ‘it will never happen to me'
attitude is still prevalent in young drivers.

Distractions and inattention continue to be a problem for young drivers,
with 65 percent admitting to being distracted when having a conversation with a
passenger – a similar result to last year's survey.

Novice drivers are among the most vulnerable groups on our roads. In
2012, 17-19 year olds made up 4 percent of the WA population yet were over
represented in road deaths, making up 7 percent of road fatalities.

The survey also revealed that 46 percent of young drivers reported
seeing their parents using a mobile phone while driving, and 71 percent said
they had been aware of their parents speeding.

Young driver behaviour:

>      
  70% have driven while tired or fatigued

>      
  65% have been distracted by a conversation while driving

>      
  50% have expressed anger at other drivers by shouting,
gesturing or driving aggressively

With results such as these, parents are encouraged to be more proactive
in providing post drivers licence acquisition.

Till next time - Drive Safe.

Eugene Herbert