Factors contributing to the high accident liability of novice drivers and the role of driver training

The nature of accidents involving novice drivers is continually debated. No single answer has yet been found to the question of what causes these high accident figures. This presentation aims to review the literature on research into novice driver behaviour, to describe the known contributing factors, and to discuss the results with particular reference how driver training may contribute to greater safety. A more detailed description can be found in Lynam and Twisk (1995). The paper is structured as follows. Starting of with the magnitude and nature of driving accidents, it then discusses how well novice drivers actually drive. Secondly, the question is addressed what factors might contribute to their poor ‘performance'. Finally the role of driver training and how inherent limitations of driver training can be overcome, is discussed. 1.2.ab To show the magnitude of the problem at a European level, we have analysed the accident data as contained in the international database IRTAD (International Road Transport Accident Data Base). The results of the analysis are presented in Figure 1. It shows the fatality frequency of car occupants by different age groups per 100,000 inhabitants. Comparing the European countries, we see that in all countries, without exception, fatalities peak between the age of 18 and 24. This is a very consistent pattern, and the conclusion is justified that the high loss of lives in this age group is a ‘European problem', as well as a national problem. Aside of the similarities, there are also differences between countries. These differences are related to: - the magnitude of the problem; - the age group most at risk