September 24, 2019 12.36 pm This story is over 69 months old

Free advanced motoring course for 50 young drivers

The scheme is being launched by Lincolnshire’s PCC
PCC Marc Jones undertook the Advanced Driving Course.

Fifty young drivers in Lincolnshire will have the chance to take an advanced driving course free of charge after the launch of a new project by Lincolnshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner.

PCC Marc Jones has partnered with road safety charity IAM RoadSmart in Lincolnshire to provide funding for 50 drivers under the age of 25. After £2,500 of investment the scheme, which launches on September 25, aims to reduce the high casualties amongst young drivers in the the county.

Across Lincolnshire in 2018 there were 512 incidents in which people were killed or seriously injured, which included 56 fatal crashes. Of these incidents 132 involved a driver aged 24 or younger, which is up from 104 on the previous year.

PCC Marc Jones secured the highest pass mark of a ‘F1RST’ when he undertook the Advanced Driving Course and test after nine weeks of training with a local IAM Lincolnshire volunteer observer.

He said: “The death and injury toll on our roads is of real concern and I have made it a priority to address this issue.

“Having undertaken the advanced driving course myself I know my own driving and observational skills have improved and how valuable the course can be in alerting drivers to potential dangers and, hopefully, avert tragedy. If just one serious injury, or death, can be avoided then it will be worth every penny of investment.

“This is just one of many initiatives I am pursuing to address road safety and I will continue to seek new and innovative ways to keep our highways safe for the people of Lincolnshire.”

People interested in the scheme can apply online or by phoning 0300 365 0152. They will need to pay a refundable £50 deposit which they get back after they have completed the course. IAM RoadSmart advanced driver courses normally cost £149.

After an average of ten one-hour on-road sessions in their own car, with a qualified observer, applicants take an advanced driving test. Once passed drivers receive a certificate and become a member of IAM RoadSmart.

Some insurance companies offer discounts for drivers who hold the advanced driving qualification. IAM RoadSmart also has its own insurance company which offers preferential rates to members.