Young male motorists are putting themselves at risk on the roads as they believe they are better drivers than they actually are, it has been claimed.<\/p>\n
According to a study conducted by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), 62 per cent of novice male drivers think they are more skilful that the average driver.<\/p>\n
In contrast, just 32 per cent of young female drivers share the same opinion of their abilities.<\/p>\n
Young motorists are the most at risk groups on the road and males between 17 and 29 are twice as likely to be killed or seriously injured in an incident as young female drivers.<\/p>\n
IAM chief executive Simon Best said: "Young male drivers suffer from a lethal combination of overconfidence and inexperience. They don't need curfews and other restrictions on their driving; they need to practice and gain driving experience safely."<\/p>\n
The IAM has backed calls for post-test training and the research shows more young people would undertake the process if financial incentives were offered.<\/p>\n
Reduced insurance premiums would encourage three-quarters of young novice drivers to consider further training.<\/p>\n
Posted by Emma Grange<\/p>\n