Claire Bradley, Life Drive participant 2015
There are only 40 spaces left on Bournemouth Borough Council’s young driver training course Life Drive, designed to give young drivers all the skills they need to stay safe on the roads.
Figures show drivers under 24 years are about twice as likely to be involved in a serious or fatal collision than any other age group in Bournemouth. As part of the Council’s commitment to reducing accidents by 40 per cent by 2020 Life Drive was launched last year to help young drivers gain more experience.
Co-ordinated by LV=Streetwise and delivered by Gold Driving Academy on behalf of Bournemouth Council, Life Drive uses both theoretical and practical training to help young drivers improve their skills. An Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) takes participants through the common causes for accidents, and teaches ways to reduce the risks on the roads. This is followed up by up to two 90 minute drive-outs with the ADI where young drivers can practice their new skills.
Claire Bradley, who recently completed the course, said; “As a relatively new driver who had just moved to the Bournemouth area, Life Drive was just what I needed to instil a bit of confidence and get some reassurance regarding my competency as a driver.
“You get an interesting and relevant refresher on the key elements of the Highway Code and a drive-out with a qualified instructor to iron out any bad habits. I really recommend it”
Participants are rewarded for their commitment to safer driving with a voucher worth more than £50 which can be redeemed at participating local businesses including Frankie & Benny’s, Lush, Motabitz and Empire Cinemas.
Richard Pearson, Road Safety Manager, Bournemouth Borough Council, said “This course is an excellent opportunity for young drivers to gain more experience in a safe environment.
“Feedback from those who have already completed the course shows that it has a significant impact on the attitudes of young drivers. After completing the course 100 per cent of participants saw driving under the influence, using a mobile phone, not wearing a seatbelt and driving in a certain style due to peer pressure unacceptable.”
The free training is open to all drivers who live or work in Bournemouth aged between 17 and 25 who have passed their driving test within the past four years. The next session will take place at LV=Streetwise on Wednesday 22 April. Spaces are limited so book early to avoid disappointment.
For further information or to sign up visit www.bournemouth.gov.uk/Transport/RoadSafety/LifeDrive.aspx or call 01202 591330.
