📹 Video: Dave Foster on ITV News

Viewers in the South West may have noticed Dave making an appearance on ITV News this week, with the TV crew visiting 1st 4 Driving HQ in Callington on Monday.

Dave was asked about new statistics that state a third of people are nervous about getting back behind the wheel having not driven in some time.

With the UK starting to get back to normal after almost 18 months of disruption, what do we need to be thinking about when it comes to road safety? And what can nervous drivers do to feel more at ease behind the wheel?

“[a] very common thing is not planning, putting things off and particularly things like the time aspect.”

“I would say to anybody make sure you allow extra time for journey[s] particularly if you’re feeling a bit worried and give yourself time to stop if you need to.”

“If you’re really looking for support, take a friend with you or take a member of your family.”

The new survey shows an alarming percentage of people struggling with their confidence on the road post-lockdown:

• 58% of motorists used their cars less than usual during the most recent lockdown
• 36% of drivers are nervous about their own ability
• 75% are worried about other road users who are out of practice
• 16% of car owners didn’t check any aspect of their vehicle during the latest lockdown

But with many driving schools already fully booked with long waiting lists, is it really practical to advise refresher lessons?

What role can we play as driver trainers to ensure these statistics stay a temporary side-effect of an unprecedented year, and don’t become a worrying national trend going forward?

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