Safety for young drivers who travel with friends

First time car insurance holders usually embrace the freedom that they've gained and use the opportunity to indulge in outings with their friends. However, young drivers must be careful to keep their concentration on the road as they are more likely to be involved in a car accident when they carry passengers of the same age.

According to research and statistics from respected bodies such as the Association of British Insurers and the House of Commons Transport committee, young occupants of the car can distract a new driver; tempting them into showing off and even using peer-pressure to persuade the motorist to drive dangerously. A high percentage of teenage fatalities arise from car accidents involving young drivers.

When a holder of young driver car insurance carries two or more young passengers, the risk of being involved in a fatal car accident is more than five times the chance of one happening when the driver is travelling alone. Young male drivers pose the largest risk when they choose to travel with other young male passengers.

Many young male drivers admit to driving in a riskier manner when they are with their friends who are likely to actively encourage the behaviour. Young men are much less likely to drive dangerously if they have a female passenger because they feel more protective over women. Additionally, women are more likely to reprimand a driver for perceived "scary" driving.

Nonetheless, car journeys to new places with friends are part of the excitement that comes with passing a driving test. As long as a new driver remains aware of the dangers and drives sensibly there is no reason why they can't share their freedom with friends.

The best way for a young driver to stay safe when travelling with peers is to maintain a good grasp of common sense. All occupants of the car should always wear seatbelts (a legal requirement), music should not be so loud that it hinders the driver's concentration and passengers should not attempt to distract the driver.

If a driver feels that their passengers' behaviour is affecting their concentration they should voice their concerns and warn the occupants about the potential dangers they face. It is easy for passengers to forget or underestimate how alert a driver needs to be.

Driving safely with insurethebox
If you are a safe young driver, an annual policy with insurethebox could benefit you hugely. We fit a Clear Box inside your car which uses telematics technology to send us details about your driving habits. Drivers who can prove to us that they are responsible and considerate road users are able to earn additional Bonus Miles on top of their 6,000 Base Miles.

To find out more call one of our team members with any questions about first time car insurance on 0333 123 1308.