Leeton Shire Council is holding a free workshop for parents and supervisors of learner drivers in Leeton at the Major Dooley Library on Tuesday, 16 May 2023 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.
The "Helping Learner Drivers Become Safer Drivers" presentation offers parents, and other learner driver supervisors, practical advice on how to provide the most effective driving practice for learner drivers.
Younger drivers are at higher risk of crashing and face many challenges when learning the complex task of driving. Despite making up only about 15 per cent of all licence holders, the crashes that involve younger drivers (aged under 26 years) account for almost a quarter of annual road fatalities.
Crash data indicates there is a spike in crash involvement for P1 drivers in the first six months of unsupervised driving. P1 drivers are also eight times more likely to be involved in a crash in the first month of independent driving.
Council's Road Safety Officer Steph Puntoriero said parents and supervisors play a vital role in advising and supporting novice drivers.
"This presentation was developed to better prepare them for the job. The workshop covers topics such as how to use the Learner Driver Logbook, planning driving sessions, how to deal with stressful situations that may arise during driving practice, the changes to the licensing scheme introduced in November 2017, mobile phones rules, and the importance of giving learners constructive feedback."
"Passing on the right driving skills to learner drivers can save their lives. Anyone supervising a learner is encouraged to attend."
Recent data shows, over the last five years, more than 30 per cent of all drivers involved in crashes in Leeton Shire were under the age of 25 years.
"It is vital that parents and supervisors pass on the right information and skills to keep their young drivers safe on the roads," Ms Puntoriero said.
