Young motorists across Derbyshire are being offered advanced driving courses to reduce their risk of a collision as part of a new safety project.
Angelique Foster, Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner, has announced funding for 30 Advanced Driver Courses for young drivers aged 17 to 25 over the next 12 months.
The IAM Roadsmart courses will be held in Derby, Chesterfield and Derwent and Hope Valley to cover Derbyshire and Derby City in support of the Commissioner’s priority to improve Road Safety, as set out in her Police and Crime Plan.
It is the latest in a series of projects funded by the Commissioner help reduce both the risk of a collision and the severity of injury.
Young drivers will receive one-to-one coaching through IAM RoadSmart’s ‘Skills for Life’ programme by volunteers who are all qualified Advanced Drivers and accredited Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) Observers. The intention will be to train the drivers to reach the necessary standard to pass the DVSA accredited IAM Advanced Driver Test.
Participants will pay for the course upfront using the normal booking method via IAM RoadSmart. Upon completion of the course, they will receive a full refund for the cost.
The Commissioner is also providing partial funding for 30 Advanced Rider Courses for motorcyclists in Derbyshire through the IAM RoadSmart road safety charity. These courses are not restricted by age and riders will receive a partial refund of £100 upon successful completion of their course.
Police and Crime Commissioner Angelique Foster said: “In 2022, 19 per cent of all car driver fatalities in the UK were younger motorists whilst young drivers accounted for 18 per cent of all serious collisions.
“Reducing all casualties and fatalities on our roads is a key priority for me. Improving young drivers’ observational skills and experience behind the wheel will help prepare them for any potential dangers and reduce risk. If we can avert just one fatality or serious injury collision through this investment, then it is worth every penny.
“Speeding is a serious concern for local people. We are taking a range of approaches to make our roads safer for all road users including additional enforcement, but this must be balanced with education and providing motorists with the tools they need to improve their driving in the long-term.”
The IAM RoadSmart course will improve observation, provide greater awareness and anticipation of potential hazards and improve decision-making whilst also enhancing and developing driving technique.
- Book Advanced Driver Course – https://www.iamroadsmart.com/courses/advanced-driver
- Book Advanced Rider Course – https://www.iamroadsmart.com/courses/advanced-rider
As published on the Derbyshire OPCC Website 30th January 2024