New research reveals that parents’ biggest worry for their children is their safety while in cars.
Parents biggest fear when it comes to their children is being injured in a serious road collision, according to a new survey from the Association Of British Insurers (ABI).
The research involved talking to the parents of children aged 16 to 25 about what would their main worries are when it comes to their offspring. Overwhelmingly, respondents said the thought of their child being involved in an accident was their biggest anxiety, with 62 per cent of respondents citing this as their main concern.
James Dalton, head of Motor at the ABI said: “Parents are right to be concerned for their children’s safety on the roads since car crashes are the single biggest cause of accidental death among 15-24 year olds.
“The survey findings highlight the need for Government to introduce reforms to reduce the tragic loss of young lives. The Government Green Paper that was promised to look at tackling the problem has repeatedly been delayed.”
Mr Dalton added that his organisation has long been campaigning for reforms that would help young people to become safe drivers. However, he believes that until action is taken, parents will continue to worry about the safety of their child every time they get into a car.
The ABI has urged the government to take on board its recommendations of a one-year minimum learning period, a limit on the number of passengers a newly-qualified driver can carry in their car, as well as a zero tolerance approach to drinking and driving.
According to the results of the survey, their child’s inability find paid employment was revealed to be the second biggest worry, with 59 per cent of parents mentioning this as a cause of disquiet. A third of participants fretted over their offspring failing to reach their potential at school or university. A further 31 per cent were afraid their children would indulge in illegal drugs and 27 per cent were concerned they would take up smoking.
Posted by Emma George