Caitlin's Campaign - how Northern Ireland eductates new drivers
The PSNI say the Government should look at what they do
Road policing chiefs in Northern Ireland are urging the British Government to listen to calls from Caitlin's campaign to bring in saftey restrictions on young drivers once they pass their test.
It comes as we campaign for a Graduated Driving Licence to be introduced so that new drivers can gain more experience behind the wheel.
Northern Ireland already has a number of restrictions in place - and is now looking at limiting the number of passengers young people can carry in the first six months. Currently drivers receive an amber ‘R’ plate which restricts them from travelling over 45mph in the first two years after they pass.
It's a similar story in Ireland where new drivers get an ’N’ plate, to highlight them being a new driver and also put stricter drink driving limits on them.
New drivers in New Zealand and Australia and areas of the US are not allowed to drive at night unless they are accompanied by an experience motorist.
WATCH: Inspector Rosie Leach is Head of Road Safety for the PSNI:
Legislation has now been drawn up to introduce a Graduated Driving Licence system in Northern Ireland in 2019/20.
In February 2018 Prime Minister Theresa May asked the Department for Transport to investigate a ‘graduated licences’ scheme to help reduce accidents among young drivers.
Mrs May said: "There are too many people who suffer a loss and tragedy at the hands of learner drivers and we will certainly look at that.”
WATCH: Inspector Rosie Leach on why the Government should look at how Northern Ireland is doing things:
A probationary period has also been proposed which would mean that certain restrictions are imposed on new drivers for up to two years after they pass their practical test.
Under the proposals drivers would be restricted from driving at night time and carrying passengers under 25 years of age unless supervised.