Motorway lessons for learner drivers

Learner drivers will for the first time be given motorway experience with an instructor before they can pass their test, under plans announced by the UK Government today.

Picture: PA

The move, among a raft of changes designed to improve road safety, would be backed by a £2 million research scheme into driver education.

Currently, motorists are only allowed on the motorway once they have passed their practical exam.

However, under Department for Transport plans, learners would be offered the opportunity to take a motorway driving lesson with an approved driving instructor in a dual-controlled car.

Other plans include an increase in penalties for drivers who use a handheld phone at the wheel, from three points to four, while fines would increase from £100 to £150.

Lorry drivers will be given six points because of the greater potential consequences of such distractions.