Further Restrictions on Young Drivers to come into effect !
Speaking in the wake of the fatal car accidents in Kerry, Chief Executive of the Road Safety Authority, Mr. Noel Brett commented that a number of issues were shortly to be addressed in what is called the “Graduated Licence Scheme” which is shortly to be introduced.
The measures include the reduction of the alcohol limit for drivers, to 20mg per 100milli litres of blood from 80mg/100milli litres.
He said that this had already been passed by the Oireachtas.
In addition, he said that a new Learner Permit Process would be introduced in place of the Provisional Licence Scheme.
Under the new Scheme, it will not be possible to sit a diver’s test without having a learner permit for 26 weeks.
In addition, Learner Drivers must be accompanied by someone with a full Driver’s Licence for a period of two years.
The Graduated Licence Scheme may also require Learner Drivers to get a certain number of hours and to keep a log book in relation to their driving.
Despite earlier concerns, the new Law does not include curfews.
In light of the fatal accidents and indeed, the increase in the number of serious personal injuries sustained by young people in cars, it is hopeful that these proposals will assist in minimising both the deaths and personal injuries.
Learner drivers to face new strict rules.
In the wake of the multiple deaths in recent road traffic accidents new regulations
are to be introduced to make compulsory training for learner drivers a fact of life.
Recent car crashes, fatal accidents and serious injuries have featured in our newspaper headlines
In response the RSA (road safety authority) stated that a new gradation driver licensing system would shortly be introduced.
It is believed that the scheme will require new drivers to maintain a log book of hours spent practising.
In media comments following the fatal car accident in Donegal some commentators went so far as to suggest a curfew for young drivers to cut down on injuries and accidents.
It seems that that might infringe upon civil liberties but in the light of the recent tragic loss of life the topic was raised again.
New requirements may include a beefed up theory test and a mandatory requirement of hours of training with an approved driving instructor at a cost of up to €700.
Paul Tracey
27/07/2010
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