The Bundesanstalt fuer Strassenwesen (BASt) commissioned the SWOV Institute for Road Safety Research to review the literature on research into the effectiveness of: (1) post-qualification restrictive measures for novice drivers; and (2) of accompanied driving both as part of the driver training and as part of post-qualification restrictions. The study briefly describes the problems associated with young drivers. The study provides a theoretical framework on which the safety potential of measures can be assessed. The study deals with four systems: (i) driving licence on probation; (ii) driving licence with restrictions only; (iii) two phase driving licences; and (iv) accompanied driving. In the current system in Germany most but not all contributing factors to young driver safety are dealt with. Those that are not addressed are: (a) the occurence of overload due to low automation; (b) slowly developing skills such as hazard perception; (c) overestimation of skills; and (d) error prone driving routines. In addition to the current measures, these limitations could be overcome by the introduction of: (1) a compulsory second test after the probationary period: testing the level of automation (behind the wheel testing); and testing the level of theoretical higher order cognitive skills; (2) 0 promille alcohol during the probationary period; (3) a voluntary driving curfew; and (4) of accompanied driving (voluntary) to practice for the second examination. (A)
Abstract