'Most new drivers would fail driving test within year of passing after making big mistakes'

Four out of five newly qualified drivers have made dangerous or serious mistakes in the past year which would cause them to fail a driving test, a study shows.

Despite the fact almost two-thirds (57%) of new drivers would describe themselves as ‘good drivers’ 82% have admitted to making ‘major’ mistakes.

A survey of 1,000 drivers under 25 who have passed their test in the last year found they admitted to being distracted in-car media (35%), driving nervously (33%) not using their mirrors (20%), speeding (20%) and road rage (17%).

The study for navigation technology provider Garmin is backed by road safety charity Brake to mark Road Safety Week and surveyed 1,000 parents of newly qualified drivers.

Almost two-thirds of new drivers describe themselves as ‘good drivers’ (PA)

More than three-quarters (81%) of parents say having a child on the roads alone leaves them with worry, stress and concerns.

Joshua Harris, of Brake, said: “This study highlights the number of new drivers making potentially dangerous mistakes on our roads and is serious cause for concern.”