Public Health Wales backs Gradual Driver Licensing to enhance road safety
Public Health Wales is supporting the introduction of a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system across the UK.
This system allows new drivers to develop skills and experience gradually while being less exposed to danger.
The implementation of Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) could save lives in the UK, as per a consultation response by Public Health Wales.
In its response to the Welsh Government’s 12-week consultation, ‘Road Safety in Wales – A New Road Safety Strategy’, Public Health Wales advocated for a road safety strategy that centres on public health.
This strategy aims to address inequalities arising from the road traffic environment and prioritises walking, cycling, and public transport.
A GDL system is designed to help new drivers of motor vehicles gain experience and skills gradually over time in low-risk environments.
A wide range of measures could be considered within a GDL, but options may include a period when newly qualified drivers under the age of 25 are not permitted to give lifts to other young people and are not permitted to drive late at night.
Public Health Wales’ position statement for a GDL also recommends a night time driving restriction and a drink drive limit of 20mg per 100ml of blood.
Public Health Wales has also suggested reducing pedestrian crossing wait times while extending the time allowed to cross.
Other specific policy suggestions include ensuring that cycling infrastructure is clearly separated from other motor vehicles and that “paint only” cycle lanes are inadequate.
Public Health Wales also emphasised the need for a social marketing campaign to inform the public about road costs and the priority of road users.
Dr Sarah Jones, Consultant in Environmental Public Health at Public Health Wales, commented: “Historically, our road network has been designed prioritising private motor vehicle users. ”
“However, it’s increasingly evident that this approach is not suitable for the future. A shift in transport modes is needed to encourage more people to opt for walking, cycling, or public transport over cars.
“This change is crucial for Wales to develop a road system that aids in decarbonisation, reducing air pollution, addressing the climate emergency, and reducing access inequalities.”
“A road safety strategy is essentially a public health strategy. All elements of the new strategy should be thoroughly considered in terms of their potential to protect, improve, or harm health.
“To this end, Public Health Wales recommends the involvement of public health specialists in the development of the road safety strategy from its inception.”
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