Marmalade urges parents of learner drivers to get behind the wheel and practise

Posted by Media Team on 21 June 2018

An annual Census* conducted by the leading provider of cars and insurance for young drivers has revealed there is a lack of participation from parents of learner drivers when it comes to enhancing their child’s learning experience.

Research by Marmalade has identified that over half (57%) of parent respondents choose not to take their learner driver child out for private practice in addition to lessons with an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI). This goes against the Driving and Vehicles Standards Agency (DVSA)’s recommendation of getting as much driving practice with friends and family as possible.

Crispin Moger, CEO for Marmalade, comments: “I respect not all parents are able to offer their children additional private practice but I do believe more can be done to enhance the experience of novice drivers’ skillsets ahead of becoming qualified. And I’m not alone.

“In our latest Census, night-time driving (58%), motorway driving (57%), which has since been implemented into lessons from 4 June, and rush hour driving (48%) were three of the biggest real-life scenarios which young drivers believe should be included within driving lessons. These are everyday occurrences for most road users so it’s important learner drivers are armed with as much experience as possible before they are behind the wheel as a qualified driver.”

Reasons for parents choosing not to take their child out on the roads varied. The most popular reason was that there was no need because this was what the ADI was being paid for (30%). This was followed by the parents not wanting their young driver to pick up their bad habits (21%) and the child not wanting to practise with their parent (19%).

It is inevitable taking to the roads with an inexperienced driver will reveal a mixture of emotions. In fact, the survey highlighted 57% of those parents who choose to take their learner driver child out on the roads (43%) said the experience made them feel anxious, whilst 39% felt a sense of pride.

Crispin continues: “Sadly, young drivers (under 25’s) are statistically more likely to be killed or seriously injured compared to older drivers and one of the main reasons for that is lack of experience. Private practice is essential in ensuring different road types, weather conditions, time of day and local areas are explored to present real-life scenarios and boost confidence. I urge parents who are willing and able to do so, to get behind that wheel and start practising with their child.”

Parents considering offering private practice, or seeking more information, should visit Marmalade’s parent’s advice guide. The resource has an abundance of helpful tips including this recent insight from a driving instructor who shares his advice when giving your child additional lessons.

For more information about Marmalade visit www.wearemarmalade.co.uk