Motoring news

 

Belt up this Valentine's day

06 February 2012

The IAM, the UK's largest road safety charity, is urging drivers and their passengers to belt up this Valentine's day and challenge their friends, families and loved ones if they fail to wear a seatbelt.

Overall, one in five (19 per cent) of people admit to not wearing a seat belt in the back seat and one in ten (nine per cent) of drivers admit to not wearing a seatbelt in the front.

Drivers and passengers aged 17-34 have the lowest seatbelt-wearing rates combined with the highest accident rate. Twenty-six per cent of drivers with between three and six years driving experience admit to not using a seatbelt. Young men under the age of thirty are the most likely not to buckle up in the back – 17 per cent admit to this.1

IAM director of policy Neil Greig said: "Everyone should look after their loved ones, especially on Valentine's day. Research shows that one in five occupants killed in crashes were not wearing seatbelts. That's more than 300 preventable deaths a year.

"That's why we are asking drivers and passengers to make sure everyone is buckled up this Valentine's Day, especially the young men. There's no greater passion killer than a car crash. Belt up in the front and the back."

The IAM suggests six of the best buckle-up tips:

Drivers, tell your passengers to wear their seatbelts, and passengers, return the favour.
Always wear a seat belt, even on short journeys.
Don't let extra people in without belts or let them share the same belt.
Check your headrest. It should be level with the top of your head.
Make sure all passengers are belted up before setting off. Check children yourself, and ensure that they don't undo or slip out of seatbelts. Children up to 135cm tall need a suitable restraint.
If you are pregnant wear the lap restraint under your bump.
ENDS

23 January 2012

The IAM is renewing its call on the government to make driving on rural A-roads a mandatory part of the driving test.

IAM research shows that 82 per cent of rural fatal and serious casualties are on single carriageway roads compared with just 18 per cent on motorways and dual carriageway roads*.

However the current driving test fails to take this into account. While good instructors understand that experience on a wide variety of roads in different conditions gives young people the best chance of survival, all too many merely educate up to the existing test standard. Knowledge of parking, emergency stops and low speed manoeuvres is important but dealing with high speed corners, bad weather, and overtaking are far more vital skills.

The recent report from the IAM The fast and the curious*1, found that new drivers themselves felt unprepared for real life scenarios and would welcome extra help.

The IAM has written to the road safety minister to outline its views on how it believes the government should tackle deaths and accidents of the highest risk group on our roads, young drivers. This starts with improving the driving test to include training on our most dangerous roads – single-carriageway rural A-roads.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: “More than half the cars on our roads are rated as four or the maximum five star in European safety tests, and the figure is even higher for new cars. Our roads are also getting safer in their design*2.

“But the roads where drivers, especially young drivers, are most frequently killed and injured are still not consistently part of the driving test. The minister recently announced young drivers would be allowed to use motorways when accompanied by an instructor, but it is single carriageway A-roads where the real problem lies.

“Driver and rider error is a contributory factor in two thirds of accidents*3. We can only improve our cars and roads so far. The challenge now is to improve the humans that drive them, to continue our outstanding record of road safety.”

 ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. 1.The IAM is the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, dedicated to improving standards and safety in driving, motorcycling andThe commercial division of the IAM operates through its occupational driver training company IAM Drive & Survive. The IAM has more than 200 local volunteer groups and over 100,000 members in the UK and Ireland. It is best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving, motorcycling and cycling courses. Its policy and research division offers advice and expertise on road safety.
   1. 2.*IAM – Rural roads – the biggest killer http://www.iam.org.uk/images/stories/downloads/Policy_and_Research/Rural_Roads_Report.pdf
   2. 3.*1http://www.iam.org.uk/images/stories/Policy_Research/14395%20Young%20Drivers%20Booklet.pdf
   3. 4.*2 Findings from EuroRAP showed that of the UK’s most improved roads, almost half are single carriageways. http://www.eurorap.org/news_item?search=y&;ID=460
   4. 5.*3IAM – Licensed to skill: The main contributory factors in 700,000 accidents http://www.iam.org.uk/images/stories/Policy_Research/IAM%20Factors%20in%20Accident%20Report.pdf

 

 

16 January 2012
The IAM warns motorcyclists and cyclists to take extra care when Transport for London's (TfL) decision to allow motorcyclists to use bus lanes on a permanent basis comes into force on Monday 23rd January 2012. This decision will see London joining cities such as Birmingham and Bristol who already allow it.
 
While motorcyclists' use of bus lanes will help to ease congestion and reduce CO2 emissions in the city, studies by Ealing Council* and TfL*1 have shown a significant increase in motorcycle collision rates and severity. TfL's review also found that there was an increase in pedal cycle accidents of 173 per cent*, even when the increase in the number of people cycling was taken into account.
 
The TfL trial of 418 sections of road in London that contain a bus lane, showed direct collisions between motorcycles and pedal cycles. Although there were no direct collisions between motorcycles and pedal cycles in Ealing, the council was concerned that pedal cycles are reacting to the presence of motorcycles in bus lanes by travelling nearer to the kerb than before, making them less visible to vehicles turning across their path*.
 
IAM chief executive Simon Best said: "This change will improve congestion and journey times for motorcyclists, and responsible bikers should find it safer being in a bus lane. Safer motorcycling in busy cities will encourage more moped and motorcycle use which can only be a good thing for traffic flow. But the evidence does show two of the most vulnerable road user groups – motorcyclists and cyclists – will be at more risk.
 
"This decision doesn't just affect Londoners. With thousands more people visiting London for the Olympics this summer, everybody needs to be aware of the risks. Bus drivers and cyclists need to be vigilant and get used to sharing the space with motorcyclists, but there is a lot motorcyclists and cyclists can do to protect themselves."

 Motorcyclists:
Always assume that other road users may not have seen you
When travelling in a straight line position yourself where you easily seen – don't sit out next to the traffic beside you, or hug the kerb. You get lost to sight
Be seen. Big blocks of bright colour are better than broken up or patterned clothing, which effectively camouflages you. And always make sure you have your headlight on
Give other lane users time to realise you are there. Give cyclists space and time to avoid startling them
Don't use the extra space in the bus lane to unnecessarily increase your speed
Be careful of traffic crossing the bus lane at junctions – both from side roads, and out of the queue on your right. They aren't looking for you – they're looking for a big bus
Look well ahead to avoid needing to make sudden changes in direction for potholes etc – bus lanes tend to have uneven surfaces
Cyclists:
Always assume that other road users may not have seen you
Claim the lane. Ride in the middle of the lane, moving to allow others past as needed, but never 'hug' the kerb
Make eye contact with drivers emerging from junctions, particularly if they are turning right
Be seen. Check your lights, and wear high visibility clothes.  Put your front light on. 
Be aware of the other people who can use the bus lane.  Don't let them force you into things that are unsafe – but do try to make their lives easy as well by letting them past where its sensible
Don't position yourself on the left of lorries and buses at junctions or undertake them on the left. The bus or lorry driver can't see you, and if they turn left will cut across your path. They also have a different turning circle to a car – you risk getting trapped between the vehicle and roadside barriers

 

11 January 2012

The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) is calling on the government to work with insurers to offer discounts on premiums for young drivers who take further driver training, ahead of the Transport Select Committee’s report on the cost of motor insurance, published tomorrow. The IAM also wants to see a review of the driving test, to ensure that it is fit for purpose.

The committee of MPs has been investigating the high cost of motor insurance. Premiums have risen significantly over the last few years and this is having a big impact on young drivers.

 The average car insurance premium for young males aged 17-22 is £2,977*, more than three times the average premium of £907. For young females the average premium is almost twice as much as the average at £1,682. The figure for females will rise further in December when new gender equality laws come into effect.

 A survey commissioned for the committee found that 21 per cent of young drivers had considered driving without insurance*1, and nearly a third (30 per cent) have considered altering the information they provide to insurance firms in order to secure a lower quote.

 A recent IAM survey of 2,000 novice young drivers*2 found that only half reported positively on feeling fully prepared for driving on their own. There is a real need to ensure that young drivers are fully prepared for driving on their own, with reasonable insurance premiums to discourage them from breaking the law by driving uninsured.

 Seventy four per cent of novice drivers said that they would definitely take further training if it saved them money on their car insurance. The driving test needs to be reviewed, and a system of post test training, linked to cheaper insurance, introduced.

 IAM chief executive Simon Best said: “The simplest way to reduce insurance premiums is to prevent accidents. This is especially true for young male drivers who are most at risk of being involved in an accident. We need to start rewarding good drivers by encouraging further driver training through cheaper insurance.

 “Pass Plus no longer provides a respected or effective training offering. The government, insurance and road safety industries need to work closely together to develop a better, universally recognised option – a partnership which the IAM is keen to be a part of.”

 

19 December 2011

Drivers continue to part with more cash for everyday items at motorway service areas, shelling out up to 40 per cent more for everyday items than they would on the high street.

A large Snickers bar costs 90 pence from a motorway service area compared to 68 pence from a high street branch – 32 per cent more – while a regular coffee costs 16 per cent more on the motorway.  A packet of McCoys crisps was almost 45 per cent more expensive than a shop on the high street, and a packet of Walkers crisps was marked up by 36 per cent.

With petrol prices averaging about ten pence per litre more than at off-motorway forecourts the IAM is calling for a complete review of motorway prices, together with filling stations being forced to advertise their and their competitors’ fuel prices, as is the case in France.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: “We must end this motorway madness. Everything from sweets to petrol have an outrageous mark up.

“Our advice for tired motorists is always to take your rest break and have a coffee to help you freshen up. The danger is that rip-off prices will discourage people from getting the rest they need. Parking fines for drivers who sleep for longer than two hours put people off taking rest breaks.”

ENDS

 Notes for Editors:

1. Research undertaken by IAM using motorway service areas and high street shops.  (Table below).

Product	High street prices	Motorway services	Difference
Regular cafe Americano	£1.90	£2.20	15.79%
Regular flat white	£2.40	£2.80	16.67%
Regular hot chocolate	£2.40	£2.80	16.67%
Snickers duo	68p	90p	32.35%
Double Decker	77p	80p	3.90%
Walkers cheese and onion	70p	95p	35.71%
McCoys cheddar & onion	66p	95p	43.94%
Coca Cola 500ml	£1.67	£1.72	2.99%

 

2. The IAM is the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, dedicated to improving standards and safety in driving, motorcycling and cycling. The commercial division of the IAM operates through its occupational driver training company IAM Drive & Survive. The IAM has more than 200 local volunteer groups and over 100,000 members in the UK and Ireland. It is best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving, motorcycling and cycling courses. Its policy and research division offers advice and expertise on road safety.

ENDS ALL

 

 

07 December 2011

The fast and the curious

Sixty-two per cent of young male novice drivers think they are more skilful than the average driver, according to the IAM’s latest report, The fast and the curious: young people’s attitudes to driver training. Only 32 per cent of young women say the same. 

Young, novice drivers are the highest risk group on our roads, and male drivers between 17-29 are more than twice as likely to be killed or seriously injured as young female drivers*. Thirty per cent of car occupant fatalities are drivers aged 17-24, or passengers of a driver aged 17-24*1, yet this age group makes up only eight per cent of all driving licence holders*2.

The report also highlights the fact that young drivers are much more likely to take post-test training if there are proper financial incentives – reduced insurance premiums would encourage three-quarters of young novice drivers to consider further training.

IAM chief executive Simon Best, speaking at the IAM’s annual lunch today, 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.

“There are many paying thousands of pounds a year in insurance and killing themselves. The solution to this problem is to link driver training and insurance discounts.”

But this training needs to be done early. Fewer miles driven since passing the practical driving test and fewer attempts to pass the practical driving test (more likely to be a first time passer) make drivers more likely to be positive about further training.  

ENDS

Notes for Editors:

1. For the purposes of the research young novice drivers were defined as someone aged 17-30 who had passed their driving test within the last three years.
2. *Calculated from Department for Transport statistics ‘Reported Road Casualties in Great Britain’ (published 2010). Table RAS30011 'Reported killed or seriously injured casualties by gender, road user type and age’
3. *1Department for Transport, Reported Road Casualties in Great Britain, Table RAS40006 (2010)
4. *2DVLA, Driving Licence Statistics by age as at  25 September 2010
5. The IAM is the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, dedicated to improving standards and safety in driving, motorcycling and cycling. The commercial division of the IAM operates through its occupational driver training company IAM Drive & Survive. The IAM has more than 200 local volunteer groups and over 100,000 members in the UK and Ireland. It is best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving, motorcycling and cycling courses. Its policy and research division offers advice and expertise on road safety.

 

 

 

How to make your way through the fog

Road safety charity the IAM is offering weekly motoring tips from Britain’s top advanced driver, Peter Rodger. This week he is advising motorists on how to drive in fog.

IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger said: “Fog is one of the most difficult conditions to drive in. Ensure you are prepared so that you can carry out your journey safely, and allow lots of extra time for the trip.”

Rodger offers tips for driving in the fog:

Before setting off, clean your windows and windscreen and ensure all your lights are working.

When you’re ready to leave, switch on the dipped headlights. Use front and rear fog lights if visibility is less than 100 metres.

Use your windscreen wipers on an intermittent setting to clear condensation.

Switch the heater or air conditioning on and leave it running to keep the inside of the glass clear.

Slow down and keep enough distance between yourself and the vehicle in front make sure you can stop safely within the distance you can see clearly.

Fog is not the same density all the time – it may get thicker, slow down if it does.

Brake gently but earlier than usual so your brake lights warn drivers behind.

At junctions, wind the window down and listen for traffic.

Take high-viz clothing in case you have to leave the car.

Rodger said: “Don’t underestimate the effect fog has on your visibility. Adjusting your driving to the weather conditions will help you to become a better driver.”

To help drivers stay safe this winter, the IAM has launched a new website, drivingadvice.org.uk, with traffic updates, weather forecasts and tips on how to drive safely in winter.

Tips cover rain, snow, ice, fog and wind – everything you can expect in a typically unpredictable British winter. Check it out before you

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

11 November 2011

How to start your car in the bleak midwinter
Road safety charity the IAM is offering weekly motoring tips from Britain‟s top advanced driver, Peter Rodger. This week he is advising motorists on how to prepare your car before you set off.
IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger said: "If the weather is really bad, think about whether you really need to make the journey before travelling. If so, ensure you take out the time to prepare your car for your trip."
Rodger offers six tips to avoid seasonal car problems:
Don‟t switch on the engine until you are ready to go; a modern car does not need to warm the engine up. Do put the engine on if you need to run the heater/demister before you move.
Clean your windows inside and out – a dirty screen will cause the windows to mist up much quicker.
Clean any snow off the car‟s roof and bonnet as well as windows.
When you get in the car make sure all the extra electrical things are turned off before you try starting it (lights, heater, etc).
When you‟re ready to go, switch the engine and heater on (air con if you have fitted, it keeps the screen dry) so that the windows don‟t steam up.
Use the "ice‟ setting if your car has one.
Rodger said: "Spending time to prepare your car for the weather conditions is important so that it copes well throughout your journey. Now is the time to check the battery and that your screen wash is the antifreeze version."
To help drivers stay safe this winter, the IAM has launched a new website, drivingadvice.org.uk, with traffic updates, weather forecasts and tips on how to drive safely in winter.
Tips cover rain, snow, ice, fog and wind – everything you can expect in a typically unpredictable British winter. Check it out before you travel.
ENDS

News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

27 October 2011
Accelerate safely this winter

Road safety charity the IAM is offering weekly motoring tips from Britain's top advanced driver, Peter Rodger. This week, he is advising on the use of acceleration and power in wintery conditions. IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger said: "Power and acceleration are no good without control. This is especially true when drivers are faced with cold, wet and slippery conditions." Rodger has six tips to ensure you remain in control:

1. Be aware of the way your car applies power to the road. As acceleration shifts weight from the front to the back of the car, the wheels of front wheel-drive cars will spin more easily in wet and icy conditions.
2. Accelerate smoothly and maintain a safe speed particularly in wintery conditions – remember the speed limit may be too fast especially when conditions are poor.
3. Make sure you're in the correct gear before overtaking and use as much power as is safe bearing in mind your car's abilities, the speed limit and the road conditions.
4. Changing your use of the accelerator is a good way of slowing down, without ever needing to touch the brake. When you can see traffic slowing up ahead, ease off the power in advance instead of driving up behind it and breaking as you arrive. This will reduce the amount you have to brake and save fuel.
5. When approaching bends, reduce your speed, but ensure you maintain a constant speed and a smooth line through the bend. As you drive out of the bend, you can increase the power. If it's slippery, leave accelerating until you are straightened up properly.
6. On level ground or downhill you should be able to start from stationery without using the accelerator in a modern car – just lift the clutch carefully, and then very gently apply power once you are moving. When the roads are icy, this can be a useful technique.

Rodger said: "Wintery conditions don't necessarily mean you can't go out, but if weather conditions are very hazardous, do question whether you really need to make the journey. Understanding your car's acceleration and power will help you stay in control whatever the weather."
ENDS

 

Ministry of Justice

Dangerous drivers to face longer jail terms

07 October 2011

Dangerous drivers who seriously injure others could spend longer in jail thanks to a new criminal offence, Justice Secretary Kenneth Clarke announced today.

The new offence of 'causing serious injury by dangerous driving' will carry a maximum sentence of five years in prison and allow the courts to impose tougher punishments on dangerous drivers who devastate the lives of others.

The changes will be taken forward as part of the Government's Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill.

For the vast majority of other dangerous driving cases, the maximum penalty of two years' imprisonment provides the courts with sufficient and proportionate powers to punish offenders.

Justice Secretary Kenneth Clarke said:

'Dangerous driving can destroy lives and have a devastating effect on victims and their families and friends.

'We have listened to the victims of dangerous drivers, their families, MPs, judges and road safety groups and their experiences have directly informed these changes. 

'Making our roads safer is a priority - five people died on our roads each day last year, so we need to do everything we can to further improve safety.'

Ellen Booth, Brake senior campaigns officer said:

'Brake wholeheartedly welcomes this new offence which will help to provide justice to families whose lives have been ripped apart by dangerous drivers.

'As a charity that supports bereaved and seriously injured victims of road crashes, we repeatedly see victims' families being grossly let down by the justice system, which only adds to the terrible trauma they must endure.

'This new offence finally means that serious injury is recognised within the title of the offence, and this recognition is vitally important to victims and their families. It also means that dangerous drivers who inflict serious injuries can expect to see higher sentences to better reflect the terrible trauma and injuries they have caused.'

Road Safety Minister Mike Penning said:

'The vast majority of motorists are safe and responsible but the wilfully reckless minority who put lives in danger must face serious penalties.

'We are taking action to help the police tackle drink and drug driving, as well as to crack down on uninsured and dangerous drivers, and this new offence will mean the courts can properly punish those who inflict serious injuries.

'These measures - together with improved educational courses for drivers who need to improve their skills - will help ensure Britain's roads remain among the safest in the world.'

Andrew Howard, Head of Road Safety at the AA said:

'Dangerous drivers who do so wilfully choose to take risks and should face the consequences of their actions. 

'These law changes should make sentences more proportionate to the devastation dangerous driving causes and should also deter people from driving badly.'

 

 

 

News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

06 October 2011

Road safety charity the IAM is offering weekly motoring tips from Britain's top advanced driver, Peter Rodger. This week he gives advice on driving in heavy rain.

Before you set off, set your heater controls – rain makes the windows mist up in seconds. You don't want to be fiddling with controls when you should be concentrating on the road
Slow down. In the rain your stopping distance should be at least doubled. Giving yourself more space helps you to avoid spray, especially when following a large vehicle
Keep your eyes on the road ahead and plan your driving so that you can brake, accelerate and steer smoothly – harsh manoeuvres will unbalance the car
If you have cruise control, avoid using it on wet roads – it may create problems if you start to aquaplane
See and be seen. Put your lights on – as a rule of thumb, whenever you need to use your wipers you should also turn your headlights on, and before overtaking put your wipers on their fastest setting
Making sure your car is properly maintained will make a difference too. Check your wipers regularly, that your tyres are properly inflated and have enough tread, and that all of your lights work and are clean. By law, you must keep the windscreen washer filled, but remember, to keep your windows clean, you must do the inside as well
Rodger said: "There's nothing quite like getting to your car in the rain. It's a haven from the elements. But be cautious, especially after prolonged dry spells – rain on a dry road is dangerously slippery.

"And think about the people on the pavements – remember it is illegal to splash pedestrians."

ENDS

 

 

News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

09 September 2011

 The IAM is advising motorists planning to fit winter tyres to order them now to beat the rush.

In countries where severe winters are guaranteed, it is quite normal for drivers to switch to winter tyres. This is becoming more common in the UK because of harsh winters over the last two years.

Winter tyres have a different tread pattern to give better grip on snow and ice and have a snowflake on a mountain as a symbol on the sidewall. The symbol indicates that they use winter grade rubber which stays flexible and maintains grip to well below freezing. The rubber used on standard tyres hardens as the temperature drops.

Winter tyres are not suitable for all year round – regular tyres give better performance when temperatures are higher and roads dry – but they do make sense for drivers living in more remote areas where winter conditions are likely to be more severe for longer or for those who feel they have to travel  no matter what the weather.

An alternative to changing tyres is to carry snow chains or snow socks to fit when the snow gets deep.  Snow socks are made of a strong fabric which grips snow – they stretch to fit over the tyre. 

Either of these can be used with standard tyres and they fit quite easily into a corner of the boot, or garage in summer. 

IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger said: “The weather we experience in the UK is nowhere near as severe as many other countries, but with the past two winters having been particularly bad, motorists in the hardest-hit areas may feel reassured to have the extra grip winter tyres afford.

“But weigh up the expense. A full set will cost £400 - £500, and most drivers won’t detect any significant difference in grip until the temperature is freezing. Most importantly, if conditions are really treacherous you should just consider postponing the journey and staying at home. Even if the mercury drops to below zero, safe and sensible driving will mean you shouldn’t have any cause for emergency stops, and so little need to test your tyres to their limits.”

Whatever tyres are fitted, regular checks of tread depth and pressure are even more important in winter.  Performance in snow, ice or sub-zero conditions will reduce significantly if the tread depth falls below 3mm.  Pressure should be checked with the tyres cold – that means they should have been driven no more than a mile.  

Do not be tempted to reduce pressure to increase grip.  Tyres with low pressure do not have any more grip and are prone to overheating and blowouts.

ENDS

 

 

News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

05 September 2011

Road safety charity the IAM is calling on insurance companies to overhaul their systems for calculating prices for young drivers, after finding that a search for car insurance quotes for an average 17 year old driver revealed the cheapest annual premium to be £7,091.38. The top price quoted was just over £9700.

This particular search – made on a popular price comparison site – was for the fictional ‘Tom Stevens’, with a date of birth of the 03/03/1994. He has held a full licence for one month, and was requesting insurance on a 2007 1.1l Kia Picanto. He lives in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and claimed the car would be parked on the road. He has no previous claims or convictions and is in full-time education with a part-time job, and requested cover just for ‘social’ use.

Once Tom had been driving for a year, his cheapest quote dropped to £2528.55, on an otherwise like-for-like basis.

IAM director of policy and research Neil Greig said: “Young drivers can only learn safer driving by practising it, but huge insurance premiums risk pricing them off the road. The challenge for the government, the insurance industry and road safety experts is how to balance the need for experience with the very real risk that young drivers pose to themselves and other road users.

“When an insurance premium is matching university tuition fees, innovative thinking is needed to reward the safest young drivers or spread the cost in a more manageable way.

“Many young people will need a car to get to work and there are serious implications to the economy of young people who are unable to afford to drive, and to road safety if drivers simply choose to forgo insurance.”

ENDS

 

News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

22nd. August 2011
Training needed to tackle aggressive young drivers
Young drivers are 15 per cent more likely to crash than older drivers because of mistakes at the wheel or reacting badly to risks on the road, according to road safety charity the IAM.
The IAM’s report, Licensed to skill, contributory factors in accidents shows that for the under 20s, ‘driver and rider error or reaction factors’ account for 50 per cent of crashes.  As experience grows this falls to 42 per cent of driver and riders in their 20s and 33 per cent of those aged between 40 and 60.
Factors associated with a more aggressive driving style are also more prevalent in the crashes of younger drivers. These include ‘loss of control’ (a factor in 14.5 per cent of crashes), ‘travelling too fast for the conditions’ (10.5 per cent), ‘exceeding the speed limit’ (six per cent) and ‘sudden braking’ (five per cent).
Alcohol was a factor for 4.6 per cent of crashes for the 17-24 age group compared to three per cent for the 25 – 69 age groups.
Young car drivers made up 27 per cent of all car driver fatalities, and more than 2000 were killed or seriously injured in 20091. With driver and rider error being the top cause of fatal and serious crashes for this group, the message is clear – young drivers need more experience and training.
The IAM is calling for post-test training for young drivers in the first 12 to 18 months after passing their driving test, based on a scheme in Austria that has cut the death rate for young male drivers by 30 per cent.
IAM chief executive Simon Best said: “Seventeen to 25-year-olds are only 15 per cent of the driving population and yet they have 30 per cent of all accidents and account for 40 per cent of insurance claims.  It’s clear that handing a driving licence over without offering further help is putting far too many young people at unacceptable risk.
“The government, the motoring industry and insurance companies need to work together to ensure  that young people continue to improve their driving, particularly after passing their test.
“Post-test training that gives extra hours behind the wheel, including coaching on the critical risks such as rural roads, night time driving, weather and the effect of passengers, will save lives.”
ENDS

News Release

18 August 2011

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Flash floods - advice for drivers

Motorists are being warned that the inevitable flash floods that come with heavy rain could make driving conditions particularly hazardous.

Road safety charity the IAM is warning that motorists could face torrential rain in the coming days, which means poor driving visibility, difficult car control, slippery road surfaces and increased stopping distances.

IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger  said: "A suddenly very wet road surface increases the chances of slipping when braking or steering, which is a problem not just for motorists, but cyclists and motorcyclists too."

In cases of severe flooding, you should reconsider making the journey at all. If it is unavoidable, and you have to drive through deep water, the IAM recommends drivers take the following precautions:

• Drive on the highest section of the road and don't set off if a vehicle is approaching you.
• Leave time and space to avoid swamping other cars and pedestrians.
  

• Drive slowly and keep going once you have started - make sure you have a clear run. In manual car, keep the revs high by "slipping the clutch" (which means the clutch is not fully engaged) all the time you are in the water.
• If you can’t see where you are going to come out of the water, think twice about starting to drive into it.
• Under no circumstances in deep water take your foot off the accelerator, as this could allow water to travel up the exhaust pipe.
• Once you're out of the water, dry the brakes before you need them. The best way is to lightly apply the brake as you drive along for a few seconds, after checking nothing is following you too closely.

Mr Rodger added: "Another thing to consider when driving in wet conditions is stopping distances, as roads are slippery and it will take longer to stop. Drop your speed and give yourself more time to slow down. Visibility will be lower during heavy rain, so make a point of turning on your headlights whenever you need to use your windscreen wipers. Use your air conditioning to help clear the windows."
ENDS

20th May 2011

Your chance to cut motoring red tape

Life is about to get easier for road users, businesses, and local authorities as Roads Minister Mike Penning today pledged to slash unnecessary red tape.

Over 400 Whitehall road transport regulations have been placed on the Red Tape Challenge website – a Government-wide site aimed at reducing bureaucracy - for four weeks. It asks everyone whether they think that a regulation is well designed and provides vital protections, or is badly designed, badly implemented or simply a bad idea.

Prime candidates for being scrapped include:

The requirement for motorists to have a paper or electronically issued Motor Insurance certificate. Getting rid of this requirement could reduce admin costs for businesses and cut bureaucracy for many people;
Regulations specifying that bus companies have to wait 48 hours before they can throw away perishable items that have been left on the bus;
Rules specifying the procedure that councils must go through when installing speed humps. This includes the minimum (and maximum) heights and the minimum number of lights that must be installed nearby.
Mike Penning said;

"We are calling on everyone: consumers, businesses and volunteer groups to get involved and help reduce the number of badly thought out and obsolete regulations in our country."

Further information:

read the full press release
go to the red tape challenge website

 

 

 

11th May 2011

Better enforcement and education to cut road deaths

Plans to improve road safety education while taking tough action against the small minority of dangerous drivers were set out by Transport Secretary Philip Hammond today.

Careless driving will be made a fixed penalty offence to allow the police more effectively to tackle reckless driving that puts other road users in danger, while disqualified drivers face having to take a new test before regaining their licence.

There will also be more educational courses that can be offered in place of a fixed penalty and points in appropriate cases as well as a new post-test qualification for novice drivers, under plans set out in the new Strategic Framework for Road Safety.

And as new analysis shows, 3,500 deaths and serious injuries could have been prevented in a year if the successes of better local authorities and police forces had been matched across the country. Local people will be given the information they need to have a real say in road safety priorities on their local roads.

Philip Hammond said:

"This report marks a sea change in how we tackle road safety in this country. We are determined to differentiate between wilfully reckless drivers and the law abiding majority who sometimes make honest mistakes, or who have allowed their skills to deteriorate.

"We will focus relentlessly on cracking down on the really reckless few who are responsible for a disproportionately large number of accidents and deaths on our roads. By allowing the police to focus resources on dealing with these drivers, we can make our roads even safer.

"Our vision is to ensure Britain remains a world leader on road safety. We will only do this is if we bring people with us. This means cracking down on the most dangerous drivers without waging war on the law abiding majority.

The new Strategic Framework for Road Safety sets out the government's plans to:

Make careless driving a fixed penalty offence to allow the police more effectively to tackle the wilfully reckless driving that puts other road users in danger. Guidance will ensure that that the circumstances in which a fixed penalty notice is appropriate are clearly defined.
Require offenders to pass a test before they regain their licence after a serious disqualification.
Make greater use of powers to seize vehicles to keep the most dangerous drivers off the roads.
Increase the level of fixed penalty notices for traffic offences from £60 to between £80 and £100 and penalty points. Levels have fallen behind those for other fixed penalty offences, which risks trivialising the offences.
Improve enforcement against drink and drug driving, as announced in the response to the North Report in March.
Increase the use of police-approved educational courses that can be offered in place of fixed penalty notices to encourage safer driving behaviour.
Launch a new post-test qualification for new drivers, including an assessment process to give insurers confidence that it will create safer drivers who can expect to pay lower insurance costs. This will replace the current Pass Plus scheme.
Continue to improve the driving and motorcycling training processes, including introducing film clips into theory test.
Create a new website to allow local people to easily compare the road safety performance of their local area against similar areas, as well as a new portal to help road safety professionals share information. The framework published today also includes maps which show the recent road safety records and improvements of local authorities.
Launch an annual road safety day.
The framework also sets out the roles and responsibilities of local authorities, road safety professionals and other stakeholders in improving road safety and the increased freedom that is being given to local authorities in assessing and acting on their own priorities.

The government's long term vision is to ensure that Britain remains a world leader on road safety and the department will monitor its performance against indicators in a new road safety outcomes framework.

 

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08 May 2011 - Don't become a 'slam-on' fraud victim.

While the police have cracked down on this particular fraud it is still happening up and down the country. Our advise here is to a) make you aware of the scam so that b) if the worst happens you will be able to recognise the symptoms.

How does the fraud work.

Gang members either purchase and insure low value vehicles or use hired vehicles, and then force innocent members of the public and fleet vehicles to crash into them. By ‘inducing’ an innocent driver to collide with them, the fraudsters can rely on a highly positive chance of the acceptance of insurance liability. Multiple claims are subsequently submitted for the driver and (often fictitious) passengers. According to insurers, who continue to work hard to mitigate this risk, the average insurance bill per induced collision is £25-30,000.

Where and how does it take place.

1. Roundabouting: A fraudster disconnects their brake lights and drives around busy roundabouts/slip roads looking for victims. Once a victim is selected, the fraudster drives 2-3 metres in front of target and breaks sharply (sometimes an accomplice in another vehicle will distract the victim, with their horn or flashing headlamps, to help facilitate the crash).

2. Roundabout Shunt: Fraudster stops at a busy roundabout and waits for a potential victim to pull in behind them. The fraudster then pulls quickly onto roundabout, but stops 2-3 metres onto the roundabout. The potential victim’s attention will be focussed on checking for traffic emerging from roundabout to their right, as they themselves pull onto the roundabout. Consequently, they are unlikely to be aware of the stationary vehicle directly in front of them, until after a collision has become inevitable.

3. The Russian Method: As a slight variation on the scam, the vehicle in front of you may slam on when a third vehicle overtakes them at speed and then cuts them up for no obvious reason. In fact the overtaking vehicle may be part of an organised ‘tag team’ who are colluding in order to provide a ‘cover story’ as to why the vehicle ahead braked quickly.

Possible signs of an induced collision fraud

The vehicle directly in front of you stops unexpectedly for no obvious reason, usually upon entry to a roundabout or road junction, causing you to rear end it. If collision is pre-planned you may note some typical unusual events:
 

• The occupants in the vehicle in front of you may be turning around and looking at you out of the rear window - to ensure the trap is ready to be sprung.
• The occupants may gesture to their driver to ‘slam on’ seconds before the vehicle stops dead in front of you.
• Vehicle ahead may navigate the same roundabout several times - a sign that they are looking for a suitable victim to target.
• The vehicle in front (with which you have just collided) does not stop at the scene, but drives on. The Driver subsequently returns on foot. In an induced collision scenario, this may be done in order to prevent you from a) inspecting the actual levels of damage to the fraudsters vehicle, or b) to prevent you from ascertaining the number and identity of passengers (if any) present in the vehicle.
• The driver of the vehicle you have run into appears well prepared with written details of their name, address and insurer.
• Witnesses appear from nowhere, and corroborate your liability for the collision.
• The vehicle in front (with which you have just collided) does not show any signs of stopping e.g. Brake lights not illuminated.

Think you may have been involved in an Induced collision?

• Never admit liability at the scene. Never admit you are at fault – you may well not be.
• Do not confront the other party or take any action that you feel might place you at risk.
• Call the Police from the scene and report the collision. Invite the other driver to remain with you until the police arrive.
• Be vigilant at the scene:
• Count the number of occupants in the other vehicle.
• Ask for the names and addresses of all people present, including any reported witnesses, together with the make, model, registration and owner of the vehicle you have collided with.
• Note the Insurance details of the driver of the other vehicle, record it from what the other person tells you, not by asking them to write it down.
• Note any distinguishing features of the driver / passengers. This is useful evidentially in disproving subsequent insurance frauds.
• Take photographs if you are able to without risk of confrontation.
• Record information about the location and extent of damage to the other vehicle in detail.
• Write the fullest possible account of the incident and all related details, as soon as possible after the collision.
• Report any concerns to the police, fleet team, your manager or insurer as appropriate.

Tips for reducing the risk of personal involvement in an induced collision

• Proceed with caution at all times, particularly when approaching roundabouts and do not look for a gap in the traffic on the roundabout until you are at the give way line. Ensure your path immediately in front is clear before pulling onto the roundabout.
• Watch your speed when approaching roundabouts, junctions and slip roads. Sticking to the speed limit and maintaining a realistic safety gap from the vehicle in front will help reduce your risk.
• Be vigilant when driving, and maintain awareness of your surroundings at all times. Do not assume that other drivers will always act rationally.
• Your best approach is driving defensively - always at a speed that you can pull up safely within the distance you can see to be clear.

reproduced in part from MSAGB and Fleet News.

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2020 vision – IAM to change driver behaviour to reduce road deaths

06 May 2011

Road safety charity the IAM launched its ten-year road safety strategy today, which proposes that the road safety industry should aim to reduce road deaths on UK roads to 1,000 a year by 2020, saving 1,000 lives over the period. The strategy supports the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011-2020. With the vast majority of crashes caused by human error and lapses in concentration, the IAM believes that tackling driver and rider behaviour is the key to cutting road deaths. Cars don't cause crashes, drivers do. The key focus of the strategy is to target those drivers at highest risk: young drivers
older drivers
motorcyclists
business users
cyclists
For its part the IAM is developing products, such as Momentum for young drivers and DriveCheck 55 for older drivers, as well as promoting advanced driver, motorcycling and cycling training. These are proven to improve road safety. The IAM also want to see driving on rural roads - the most dangerous – to be part of the driving test and a new post-test training system for young drivers which builds on the success achieved in Austria. There, further training in the first 12 months after passing the test has reduced young male fatalities by nearly 30 per cent. The IAM's driver training company, IAM Drive & Survive, will be working with businesses to train their company drivers and will encourage these companies to only use suppliers who make sure their employees are trained as well. IAM chief executive Simon Best said: "We want to see five-star drivers in five-star cars on five-star roads. Cars and roads are getting safer so it's time to concentrate on the driver by improving their skills and behaviour. Over the decade we will work with around 200,000 road users through education and coaching on driving, riding, cycling and commercial driving. That's 20,000 people a year who will be safer. "As the government looks to publish its road safety strategy we believe that over 1,000 lives can be saved in the next decade by continued partnership between government, local authorities, enforcement agencies and education bodies. This also means a cost saving to the UK economy of £1.8 billion over the period, with each fatal accident costing society £1.8 million. "But 1000 deaths is still a tragically high figure. Everybody needs to work together to reduce it further. For example, insurers should offer discounts to young drivers who have taken more training after their test. "Equally every individual has to take responsibility for their own road risk, whether that is taking the initiative to improve their driving through further training, or simply taking a bit more care." ENDS

 

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14 April 2011

Happy Birthday Highway Code
One of Britain's best selling and most iconic publications - the Highway Code - is 80 years-old today.

The first edition was published on 14 April 1931 in a bid to cut down on the number of accidents taking place on Britain's roads. Despite the fact there were just 2.3 million motor vehicles at the time, over 7,000 people were killed in road accidents that year.

The Highway Code quickly became the 'must read' publication for those using the road and is now recognised the world over. The Code is now used by millions of drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians every year and has even been featured in TV drama storylines.
Road Safety Minister Mike Penning said:

"The Highway Code is the official guide to using the roads safely and responsibly. The Code has helped to save thousands of lives over the last 80 years, which is cause for celebration.

"The Highway Code is not just for new drivers, it holds crucial information for everyone from experienced motorists and motorcyclists to horse riders and pedestrians.

"The publication offers the latest information on the rules of the roads and road safety advice, as well as promoting greater courtesy and understanding among all road users. Its long-standing success is one of the reasons why Britain's roads are among the safest in the world".

The Highway Code has moved with the times and is now available in a variety of formats, including online from the Directgov website, as a download and on CD ROM with a voice-over for people with reading difficulties.

The Highway Code - the online version

 

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08 April 2011
Flip-flopping marvellous: Four footwear tips from the IAM

Road safety charity the IAM is offering weekly motoring tips to drivers from Britain’s top advanced driver, Peter Rodger.
This week we warn drivers of the potential hazards at our heels – summer shoes.

Research from Sheila’s Wheels revealed that women are risking losing control of their car due to wearing high-heels, and 65 per cent of women would like better guidelines about what to wear in the car.

IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger advises

• Follow the Highway Code advice, ‘ensure that clothing and footwear do not prevent you using the controls in the correct manner’.
• Flip-flops are not pedal friendly for drivers: they are looser than our usual footwear and are more inclined to slip off the pedal. They are also prone to getting caught under the mat or pedals.
• A patch of petrol or diesel on the ground can get picked up when we get back in the car after paying for fuel – potentially making soles slippery. Older vehicles quite often have worn rubbers on the pedals which are worth a look,   so if you can see metal showing through the rubbers should be replaced.  A combination of damp shoes from a summer downpour, and shiny pedals is putting you and other road users at risk.
• What’s under your feet? A loose can of drink, or an apple rolling around in the driver’s footwell might be something we ignore, but they could end up lodged under the clutch pedal or, worse still, the brake pedal.