New restrictions for L-drivers

Compulsory training is to be introduced for learner drivers and a two-year restricted period is to apply after they pass their test under a series of reforms announced by the Road Safety Authority (RSA).

The authority plans to introduce nine changes incrementally over the next two years that will result in an expansion of the driver theory exam and a significantly revised driving test format.

A range of new sentencing options for driving offences by learners caught speeding, not wearing a seatbelt or breaking traffic lights will also be introduced.

These punishments will include a requirement to retake a driving test; fit a speed limiter, being barred from carrying passengers and/or having a curfew imposed on their car usage.

The legislation will also provide for an alcolock to be fitted to the car of those convicted of drink driving, and the introduction of a tracking device.

It will also provide for the introduction of an ‘R’ plate that will apply for the first two years after a driver passes their test. From the end of 2012 those on this restricted licence will be required to pass a hazard perception test.

While the measures will be targeted at learner and ‘R’ plate drivers, RSA chief executive Noel Brett said widening their use to holders of a full licence “makes sense”.

Penalty points allocated for speeding, not wearing a seatbelt or ignoring traffic lights will be doubled for learner drivers.

Mr Brett said the changes were a response to research showing that drivers between 17 and 24 years of age were five times more likely to die in a crash, with inexperience thought to be a significant factor.

From December 6th, those applying for motorcycle learner permit will be required to complete a minimum of 16 hours tuition with an improved driving instructor. The same requirement will apply to car drivers after April 4th, 2011. Tuition will not be mandatory for existing learning permit holders.

The revised test will have more emphasis on “open road” driving and less on manoeuvring at low speeds.

The Department of Transport is planning to introduce new road safety legislation to provide for the measures. It will also provide for the requirement for a supervising driver to maintain and sign a logbook detailing a minimum of 36 hours where they accompanied the learner motorist, including driving at night. More than one person can be nominated as an accompanying driver, once they have a full, clean licence for a minimum of two years.

Mr Brett said he hoped this measure would prompt parents to become more actively involved in the process of their children learning to drive.

The RSA will shortly start to issue logbooks and a manual outlining suggested points to practice with learner permits. A driving instructor will also be required to sign to confirm the student has completed the required compulsory lessons. Falsifying this log will be an offence. A driver will have to provide their signed logbook before sitting their test.

A 20mg/100ml blood alcohol limit will apply to learner and novice drivers from the end of 2011, when then equipment required to test at this level becomes available.