Insurer urges parents to aid young learners

The latest research from Aviva has shown that young learners who spend time behind the wheel with their parents as well as in paid driving lessons are more likely to pass their test on the first attempt and less likely to suffer an accident in their first year of driving.

Aviva stated that their research shows that aided drivers were 17% more likely to pass their test on the first attempt, whereas in contrast, 50% of unaided drivers required four or more attempts to pass their test. More startling were the findings which showed that over 25% of unaided drivers were likely to suffer a crash during their first year of driving.

The cost of insurance for young drivers is usually sky-high, due to the anticipated risk of insuring them. The research would suggest that those learners aided by their parents will be subject to proportionately lower costs in terms of multiple tests, high insurance premiums and repair bills.

Despite the clear advantages of parental experience Aviva has also warned that parents must be careful not to pass on their bad habits. The most common instances were improper use of the steering wheel: either incorrect hand positions on the steering wheel (33%) or, just as commonly, steering with one hand on the wheel (32%). Other examples of bad practice included looking over the shoulder instead of using mirrors (19%) and being abusive to other road users (16%).

Nigel Bartram, Aviva motoring expert was quick to point out the influence that parents could have on their children’s driving. He stated in particular the importance of taking driving seriously, pointing out that children learn from their parents’ actions as well as the style in which they drive. It is therefore necessary that parents, “set a good example at all times.”

In light of these findings, Aviva has published a guide entitled “Road to Success” which offers advice for parents in helping their teenagers prepare for life on the roads. If anything this research has certainly shown that, for parents, it pays (and handsomely) to take the time and effort to help their child learn to drive.

The guide, “Road to Success” can be found here.