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Have patience with learner drivers on the road and help them instead of hoot

We've all been there at some point in our lives where we're learning something new for the first time. Emotions like nervousness and excitement are all mixed into one and that is exactly what many people experience when starting to drive for the first time.

You know when someone is a learner when there is a bold lettered 'L' stuck to the rear window - either that or they are driving really slow in front of you. This means they are either in the process of a lesson with a driving school or being taken on the road by mom or dad. The fact of the matter is that learner drivers will always be a part of the road and you should adjust your driving according to the situation.

Most learner drivers are already so nervous about making a mistake (stalling the engine, grinding a gear or hitting a kerb), added to the fact that they also have to share the road with other (sometimes not so friendly) motorists.

With road accidents being the leading cause of death for young people, Comparethemarket has put together a cool and essential guide with the most important information for new drivers:




  1. Why young drivers are at higher risk of road accidents



  2. Distractions on the road - and how to avoid them



  3. Distracted driving penalties



  4. Advice for young drivers and guidance for their parents


We include insightful stats like:




  • An estimated 1 in 5 new drivers crash within a year of taking their test.
  • As many as 1 500 young drivers are injured or killed on British roads every year.
  • Weather affects young drivers’ road confidence the most, with 48% stating they are hesitant to drive in icy conditions.
  • Challenging interaction with a passenger is a major distraction to 67% of young drivers.

Do you like the articles from Comparethemarket? Click here and read up on even more driver tips.

Now that you’ve got the knowledge, it’s time to shop! Head to gumtree.co.za or your Gumtree app (click for Apple & Android) and don’t forget to use your location settings to find local automotive vehicle information close to home.