DSA develops three young driver presentations

Young drivers are very vulnerable during the first two years after passing the driving test.

"They lack experience, they are two seconds later in seeing a hazard than the more experienced driver," says the Driving Standard Agency’s Kathy Martin. "Passing the driving test is just the beginning - not the end - of the learning process."

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) is dedicated to influencing young people’s attitudes towards learning to drive, passing the driving test and road safety issues.

To this end DSA visits and presents free of charge to many organisations including schools and colleges, the Armed Forces, youth football teams, the Probation Service and young offenders units.

DSA has developed the following three different styles and levels of presentation.

Module 1 - for schools and colleges
Includes: choosing a driving instructor; the theory and hazard perception test; the practical driving test; the Pass Plus scheme; the New Drivers Act; adopting the correct attitude; speed; drink and drugs; and vulnerable road users.

The presentation focuses on the vulnerability of the new young driver, the dangers of taking drugs/drinking when driving, and the use of speed - and the consequences if not used correctly. "We offer advice regarding hazard awareness and anticipation of other road users’ actions," says Kathy Martin. "We use video footage showing the results of road traffic accidents in an effort to reduce the risk of involvement in these incidents."
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Module 2 – agricultural colleges and the Armed Forces
An expansion of the schools and colleges presentation that addresses the important road safety issues applicable for these groups. "We include information regarding agricultural vehicles and other specialist vehicles and also take into account that MOD personnel are often trained to drive and tested by the MOD," Kathy Martin says. "This module is tailored to suit their needs bearing in mind the stringent and disciplined training they receive."

Module 3 – youth referrals, young offenders institutions, prisons and the Probation Service
This module is designed to take into account the offender’s age and the offence committed. Discussions include the consequences of TWOCING and of driving while under age.

For further information or to book a DSA presentation ring the Arrive Alive team on 0115 9012675/2676 or contact Kathy Martin, Kathy.Martin@dsa.gsi.gov.uk