Is it illegal for a learner driver to drive alone?

As a learner, you cannot drive alone. A supervisor is also considered to be in control of the vehicle, so there are [rules that apply to them too] (link to ‘Supervising a Learner Driver blog), for example, they can’t be over the drink drive limit, or use a handheld mobile phone while accompanying you.

Do learner drivers have more accidents?

While there are no official stats tabulating the number of accidents involving learners, law firm Slater + Gordon states that they “are among the safest drivers on our roads”.

What happens if a learner driver alone?

It is against the law to drive unaccompanied on a learner permit. Since December 2018 a learner driver who should be accompanied, but is driving unaccompanied, is liable to have their vehicle impounded. An accompanying driver must have held a full driving licence for the vehicle for at least two years.

Can a learner driver drive at 70mph?

As a learner driver, you won’t be used to driving at high speeds, but driving at speed on a dual carriageway is actually safer than driving slowly. Of course, driving at 70 mph is not always possible, so only drive at the speed at which it’s safe to do so at the time.

Are younger drivers more reckless?

Mile for mile, the crash rate for drivers over the age of 80 is about 5.5x that of middle-aged drivers. Drivers in their 60s have the same car accident rate as drivers in their 30s. Teenagers ages 16 – 19 are more likely to be in a car accident than any other age group.

Is driving without L plates illegal?

Are L plates a legal requirement? Yes. Learners driving a vehicle must display L plate stickers at all times. You can get up to six penalty points on your licence if you don’t display a learner plate or if it isn’t the right size.

Can a learner drive on a motorway with an instructor?

This means you’re not allowed to drive on a motorway as a learner even with an experienced driver. Unless, of course, they’re an approved driving instructor. Learner drivers can get a motorway-like experience by driving on dual carriageways with a driving instructor.

Why do I need a driving instructor?

Driving on the motorway can be stressful for any new driver. But the expertise of a driving instructor can help you understand the rules of the motorway and to build your experience. Helping you to feel more comfortable and secure. It’s an opportunity some learner drivers like Beth Holloway from St Albans welcome:

Should you be patient with learners on the road?

The Government’s advice to other motorists is: “Always be patient with learners as they may not be so skilful at anticipating and responding to events.” It’s also recommended that drivers keep a safe distance from learners in front of them and increase the gap on wet or icy roads, or in fog.

Why are learner drivers allowed on dual carriageway roads?

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) allow learner drivers on a dual carriageway roads because of the speed limit. They also, according to the DVSA, “share some of the same characteristics as motorways”.