The European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) welcomes the European Commission’s consultation on driver training and traffic safety education. ETSC considers the consultation paper as providing a solid basis for a broader discussion and is particularly pleased that scientific evidence is extensively used in this consultation. It however regrets that it is not accompanied by an assessment of various education and training systems in use in Member States. It further estimates that the elements under discussion have a great potential in reducing the number of road deaths in the EU. As a matter of fact, the novice drivers have increased risk in road traffic, partly due to the fact that they are typically young drivers. Young novice (18-24 year old) motorists have indeed a more than four times greater crash rate compared to experienced (30-59 year old) drivers. Risk reduction of these drivers could be achieved in a number of ways, but none of these should jeoardize the equal access to driving licence. Any new schemes should also seek to contribute to social cohesion in the EU. In ETSC’s view, a training programme for drivers could be most effective when combined with additional measures aimed at lowering risky behaviour of novice drivers on roads. Graduated licensing systems consisting of a classic theory exam, followed by a practical training and closed off by a practical driving exam accompanied with a beginner drivers’ licence linked to a demerit points system is preferred. This may be supported by appropriate amendments to the current Driving licence Directive. Driver training is indeed more effective if it is part of a well-designed licensing system and if more emphasis is given to self-evaluation and socio-psychological influences on driving. Moreover, in order to assure equity and fair treatment, no distinctions should be made between young and older novice drivers in their access to full driving licence. Notably, the approbatory period with stricter rules under penalty point system could be effective when applied also for older new driving licence holders. ETSC maintains that it is of vital importance that the European Commission develops minimum standards for driver training and traffic safety education. It further recognises that finding a benchmark could be a challenging task given a variety of schemes currently existing in EU Member states. Also, ETSC would like to see a gradual alignment in the form and content of driving courses across the EU. This is a logical step given the application of an EU driving licence scheme. (Author/publisher)
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