Learner drivers are now allowed on motorways after law change

Learners can now have lessons on motorways if accompanied by an approved instructor, Picture: SHUTTERSTOCK

Learner drivers are finally allowed on Britain's motorways from today following a law change.

It is hoped the new policy will better prepare novice motorists for driving at higher speeds and learn how to use motorways correctly.

Drivers were previously only allowed on motorways after passing their test.

From today, learners can have lessons on the 70mph roads if accompanied by an approved instructor and driving a car fitted with dual controls.

Road safety minister Jesse Norman said: “Britain’s roads are among the safest in the world, but road collisions remain the second biggest killer of young people.

“Allowing learner drivers to have motorway lessons with a qualified road safety expert will help more young drivers to gain the skills and experience they need to drive safely on motorways.”

One in 12 (8 per cent) of current licence holders avoid motorways for at least six months after passing their test, according to an AA poll of more than 20,000 motorists.

More than a quarter (27 per cent) said they felt scared when they did venture on to a motorway for the first time.

A fifth (20 per cent) of all fatalities on Britain’s roads in 2016 involved crashes where a driver was aged 17 to 24. The alarming figure comes despite that age category making up just 7 per cent of all licence holders, Department for Transport figures show.

Road Safety Scotland has released figures showing an average of 54 accidents a week involve a young driver aged between 17 and 25. Young drivers can be as much as 20 times more likely to be killed or seriously injured on weekends.

The law change on motorway access has been welcomed by motoring groups.