Major changes proposed for the UK driving test could see new learners given motorway training before they can get their licence.
The huge shakeup could see learners practice on slip roads, focus on stricter lane discipline and drive at faster speeds before they are allowed on the roads alone.
The new training has been proposed in an attempt to cut crashes with learners currently only able to practice high-speed driving on dual carriageways.
Experts at LeaseCar.co.uk claim this can be dangerous for drivers and other road users as newly qualified drivers will have no experience with motorways until they have their full licence.
They say they want to make motorway driving compulsory in both lessons and the final practical test.
Tim Alcock, motoring expert at LeaseCar.uk, said: “Motorway driving is an intimidating experience for those who have never been on one before.
“We believe it’s one of the scariest parts of driving as there are additional lanes and more cars on the road travelling at much higher speeds.
“The problem for new drivers is they won’t be used to how it works especially when it comes to building up speed on the slip road and how to safely merge onto the motorway.
“But having motorway driving as a mandatory part of the lessons will help build confidence and experience amongst new drivers so they’ll be fully prepared after getting their pass plates.
“Having this extra requirement in place on driving lessons and the main test will hopefully result in better drivers on the road, fewer people not knowing what they’re doing on the motorway and reduce the number of accidents caused by inexperienced drivers.
“Learning to drive on the motorway is all about experience, the more you drive on them, the more you get used to the roads. This message should be made clear during lessons to fully equip new drivers with the skills and confidence needed to have a safe journey.”
New drivers are already having to learn the latest additions to the highway code such as the ‘hierarchy of the road’ section which introduces new guidance such as giving right of way to pedestrians at junctions.
