Young Drivers Try to Avoid Parking and Overtaking

Some young drivers lack confidence with certain aspects of driving and for example a number have never parked their own car and many try to avoid going on roads they don’t know or overtake other vehicals.

The new research by The Co-operative Insurance reveals that 10% of 18 to 24 year drivers polled prefer to get their mum or dad to park the car for them rather than attempt to park it themselves.

Parking is one of the top ‘driving dreads’ among young motorists, with more than a quarter saying they lack confidence when it comes to parking their car.

Driving on ‘new’ roads is another top fear as is dealing with a big junction – in fact some 20% of young drivers would rather plan a different route to avoid such a junction.

Other driving problems areas include driving on motorways, driving through tight gaps, overtaking and roundabouts.

Interestingly enough many also refuse to drive on their own even after passing their driving test.

Grant Mitchell, Head of Motor Insurance at The Co-operative, said: “Our findings show the extent to which new motorists worry about driving. Although young drivers have the reputation for being reckless and too confident, we can see that many young people actually lack the confidence they need on the road.

“Of course, the road can be a scary place when you first start driving, but it’s surprising that basic things such as parking or negotiating roundabouts are still a worry for motorists long after they’ve passed their driving test.”

With all these worries it means some young drivers have been stopped from going out to see friends and family or visiting new places and has even stopped some from driving altogether.

There are coping mechanisms though, such as trying to avoid driving in bad weather or in rush hour. Don’t shut your eyes though – rather worryingly 5% admit to doing just that when faced with a tricky driving situation.

MoneyHighStreet comments: “Clearly many young drivers are rather nervous taking to the road, even if they have passes their driving test with flying colours. There’s no harm taking more time to build your confidence though, having someone sit with you if need be. Practise makes perfect is an old saying, how true it can be.”

The Co-operative has seen a 20% drop in car accidents among motorists who use its Young Driver insurance scheme compared to those with standard insurance.

Young Driver is a telematics insurance scheme for 17 to 25 year olds which measures how well a motorist drives. It gives feedback on driving performance as well as tips on how to improve. It also awards 90-day discounts for safe driving.

MoneyHighStreet says: “The Young Driver scheme is one of a growing number of telematics based car insurance and is a good way to help drivers, particularly young drivers to save money on their car insurance – you can find out more about it here.

“You can also save money by carefully considering the cover you actually need – do you for example need fully comprehensive cover or will third party, fire and theft will suffice. Also what excess are you willing to pay and do you need a courtesy car should your car be off the road following an accident.

“Be aware too that it may be worth considering buying GAP insurance. Whilst another cost, this is designed to cover the ‘gap’ or shortfall between the amount you can claim on your car insurance and the amount you need to pay off on any finance or to replace the car should it be written-off.”