Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, August 29, 2024
Road Safety Education Limited (RSE) has embraced the findings from a recent Automobile Association (AA) study that underscores the need for improved preparation for novice drivers and potential adjustments to the licensing system.
This research highlights critical gaps in current practices and emphasises the necessity for a revamped approach to driving education and licensing.
Increased learning hours
The AA’s study advocates for extending the learner period from six months to twelve months or introducing mandatory minimum hours of driving experience before sitting the Restricted test. RSE fully supports these recommendations.
Maria Lovelock, General Manager of RSE NZ said, “The learner period should be more than just a phase to pass the test. It should be an opportunity to develop crucial driving skills and build the confidence needed for safe driving throughout life. The additional time should be used effectively to ensure that new drivers are well-prepared.”
Research shows that novice drivers are at a significantly higher risk of crashes compared to more experienced drivers. According to the New Zealand Transport Agency, young drivers aged 16 to 24 years are involved in around 30% of all road crashes despite representing only 13% of the driving population. Extending the learner period and increasing driving experience requirements could help address these alarming statistics by providing more comprehensive training and preparation.
Parental Guidance
The AA’s study also points out that while basic vehicle handling and understanding traffic laws are important, developing higher-order cognitive skills is crucial for safe driving. RSE’s RYDA programme addresses this need by focusing on skills such as decision-making, risk assessment, and hazard perception.
Ms Lovelock adds, “While 15 hours of driving practice might cover basic skills, developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities requires more targeted education. Our RYDA programme is designed to enhance these essential skills.”
The role of parents in supporting young drivers is also a key focus. Research indicates that young drivers who receive active guidance and support from their parents tend to adopt safer driving behaviours.
A recent study by the Traffic Accident Commission found that parents who set boundaries and engage in ongoing conversations about driving safety significantly reduce their children’s risk of being involved in crashes.
One parent, Susan Thompson, shares her experience and said, “When my son started learning to drive, I felt overwhelmed by how to best support him. The workshops provided practical tools and strategies that have helped us communicate better about driving and set clear expectations.”
Expanding Educational Efforts
RSE’s educational initiatives aim to complement potential changes to the licensing system by providing comprehensive support to both young drivers and their families. Last year, the RYDA programme reached nearly 15,500 senior high school students across more than 170 schools. Lovelock notes, “While our students gain valuable skills through RYDA, many face challenges in applying these strategies at home. The Drive Coach programme helps bridge this gap by offering ongoing support to both students and their families.”
The Drive Coach programme, supported by Toyota NZ, offers free workshops designed to equip parents with practical tools for guiding their teenagers through the learning process. Recent workshops have been held in cities such as Whangarei, Hamilton, Taupō, and Balclutha, with upcoming sessions in Rangiora and Masterton, as well as online options for greater accessibility. Lovelock adds, “We plan to expand these workshops nationwide to ensure that every family has access to the information and support they need.”
Voices from the Road
Young drivers also highlight the importance of comprehensive training. James Carter, a recent RYDA participant, comments, “The programme taught me more than just how to drive. It helped me understand how to handle unexpected situations and make better decisions on the road. I feel more confident and prepared now.”
RSE’s commitment to improving road safety through education is clear. By combining proposed changes to the licensing system with targeted educational programmes, they aim to foster a safer generation of road users and enhance road safety culture across New Zealand communities.
About Road Safety Education Limited
Road Safety Education Limited is a charity dedicated to advancing road safety through educational programmes. To date, over 800,000 students in New Zealand and Australia have completed the RYDA programme, which teaches essential cognitive skills for managing distractions, understanding road rules, and planning journeys effectively. The Drive Coach programme further supports this education by engaging families in promoting safe driving practices.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
