Steph and Malcolm Harris study her driving online

Hi-tech pilot could cut young driver death toll

Staffordshire's Road Safety team are deploying a high tech solution to help young drivers improve their driving skills and avoid future accidents and sky high insurance costs.

The costs to society are high too - with 40% of all road accidents involving drivers under the age of 24.

Staffordshire County Council is looking for more volunteer young drivers and their families to take part in the trial.

The team have brought in a special high tech gizmo - a little black box which sits on the dashboard and monitors how drivers perform - how hard they accelerate, when they hit the brakes, and the G-force created at corners.

The data is automatically uploaded to the internet and uses a traffic light system to show how safe the young person's driving is - the more red lights the more likely that driver is to be involved in an accident

During the first month of the trial the young drivers will establish the data that represents their normal driving style - only after that month can they look at their driving performance on-line.

At this stage a tiny dashboard top display panel will give driver clear red light messages, instantly signalling any dangerous manoeuvres.

Youngsters can then have any dangerous habits coached out of their driving. Parents are also being encouraged to take part in the scheme.

Road Safety Manager Adrian Hide said most newly qualified drivers think they are good drivers.

"But this cunning device can graphically illustrate where they could go wrong. It's important to get parents on-board because they often buy and insure their offspring's first car for them.

"Many go through agonies worrying about whether they are driving safely, but now they can see for themselves."

Malcolm Harris and his 18-year-old daughter Steph, from Bignall End, are among the first participants. Steph has already suffered her first accident (not her fault, she insists) which left her with whiplash.

 "I admit that I drive too quickly, but I think most people my age tend to. At first I wasn't too happy about the thought that my dad could watch how I was driving, but I'm getting used to it, and it's making a real difference," she said.

Dad said he was really optimistic that the system would make a real difference to Steph's driving.

"I worry sick about her when she's out in the car. I know she drives too quickly, but I don't want to be a nagging dad. This technology is wonderful because it can present her with the stark facts," he said.

Staffordshire County Council Cabinet member for Road Safety Councillor Carol Dean said the technology could have a significant impact for the participants and the community as a whole.

 "We have very high hopes for this technology. Trials in some American states have seen a dramatic decrease in the accident rate among participants. I am confident this will be a life saver here in Staffordshire," she said.

"If the scheme is a success we are hopeful that insurers will offer incentives to young drivers who take up the option - which is a bonus.

"It's also got major environmental benefits helping families cut their climate changing carbon emissions by encouraging smooth and eco-friendly driving habits. It's a winner all round. I'm sure lots of young drivers and parents will want join in," she said.

Anyone who wants to join in or talk through the scheme should ring Adrian Hide on  01785 276617.

Page Last Modified: 29/02/2008 14:55:28

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