MEDIA RELEASE
8 December 2009
First time drivers need a minimum of 120 hours behind the wheel before hitting roads alone, according to NZTA.
Research has proven that a new driver that gets around 120 hours of supervised driving practice will be 30 percent less likely to have a crash when they end up driving alone.
“That equates to about two hours per week over a year,” says Road Safety Coordinator Christine Hutchison; which is also inline with NZTA’s ‘Practice Programme’ for new drivers. “It doesn't all have to be formal training either. It involves parents and caregivers just being the 'coach', and encouraging the learner to take the wheel.”
“This idea that ‘practice makes perfect’ is certainly not a new one,” says Ms Hutchison, “but it is always good to have the stats to back it up.”
These new findings have added extra weight to the decision to repeat the Driver Directions course, being held next week at Taupo’s MotorSport Park.
Monday 14 and Tuesday 15 December Taupo MotorSport Park will again close its gates to the general public for those days and allow young drivers aged 13-19 years old to practice their driving skills in a safe and controlled environment, accompanied by a parent or caregiver.
Driver Directions event organiser and Taupo Nui-a-Tia College teacher Jeremy Ball says the first Driver Directions day in September was a huge success, with parents and students alike benefitting from the experience. “Last time we had only one day, but this time the course will be offered over two days, so we can accept more people. Spaces are limited though, so those interested will need to get their registrations in soon.”
Each course day will begin at 10am and finish at 2pm each day. Activities include four practical driving stations; parking practice (both parallel and garage parking); shingle road and mud slide practice; a learner’s area; and slalom and braking practice at speed on the racetrack.
All participating young drivers must bring a suitable car and a caregiver, and arrive before 10am, after which time the Motorsport Park gate will be locked. Any dangerous or inappropriate behaviour will result in eviction from the track.
Taupo MotorSport Park CEO Mark Pedersen is pleased to see the park once again used to develop safe drivers. “Road safety is an important issue for me. It’s great that the track can be used to create safer and more confident drivers on the roads.”
Registrations can be made by calling Taupo Nui-a-Tia College on 07 376 1100, or after hours call Jeremy Ball on 378 1870.