A recent poll carried out by the AA has shown that nearly one quarter of the 19,000 people questioned were unaware that it is illegal to use a mobile phone while supervising a learner driver. Around one in ten people were also unaware that it was illegal to fall asleep at the wheel. The current law states that when you are supervising a learner driver you are in effect responsible for the actions of that driver.
One driver was recently sent imprisoned for a period of two years after the learner driver he was supervising caused a crash which resulted in the death of two people. The AA have suggested that learner drivers should also have professional lessons as well as practicing with other experienced drivers. When learners sit beside experienced but non professional drivers it is common for them to pick up habits.
Shockingly the study also reported that some drivers were breaking the law by drinking, sending sms text messages and failing to wear glasses that they would wear if they were driving themselves.
Almost 23% of people who took the survey were shocked to discover that using a mobile phone when supervising a learner was illegal.
Around 4% of people who responded to the survey admitted to breaking at least one of the laws. The figure rose to 22% for those aged between 21 and 24.
When you are in charge of a learner driver you are actually responsible for the vehicle you are travelling in. Many people appear to be unaware of the responsibilities that come with this.
Road safety charity Brake have also expressed their concern and are campaigning for the minimum age for supervising a learner to be upped from 21 to 25.
The importance of being confident and competent when taking a learner driver out on the roads should not be underestimated.
More Information:
The above pointers were aimed at reducing
road traffic accidents.
road traffic accidents solicitors Hattons can help with any claims.
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