10/02/2026
A Driving Instructorβs Requested Post
As a UK driving instructor, I see a worrying pattern far too often.
Parents pushing for the fewest possible lessons and rushing teenagers into a driving test the moment they become eligible.
It is understandable to want independence for your child.
It is also important to understand the risk.
Young drivers are disproportionately represented in road traffic collisions.
Department for Transport data consistently shows that the highest risk period is the first year after passing the driving test.
Teenage drivers remain the highest risk group for:
β οΈ Fatal collisions
β οΈ Injury causing crashes
β οΈ Damage only incidents
This is not down to attitude.
It is down to experience.
The biggest contributors to serious and fatal collisions among young drivers include:
π§ Inexperience and poor hazard anticipation
π Night time driving
π« Failure to wear seat belts
π΄ Fatigue or falling asleep at the wheel
π Drug driving and impairment
These are not rare scenarios.
They are everyday realities instructors see the consequences of.
Why Training Time Matters
Driving competence is not built by passing a test.
It is built through repetition, exposure and decision making in real conditions.
Learners who are given time to develop their skills become calmer, more confident and more capable of handling the unexpected.
Those rushed through often lack the experience needed to recognise danger early and respond safely.
A Message to Parents and Guardians
Rushing a teenager to test ready status may feel like progress.
In reality, it can remove vital learning time.
Extra lessons and experience are not an expense.
They are an investment in safety.
Driving is a life skill.
One that protects not only your child, but everyone they share the road with.
Please do not rush it.
Sheena Ahmed
Motorvation School of Motoring