From 1 July 2008, P1 probationary drivers will be restricted to carrying one peer passenger.
This article from Arrive Alive Website
Why are passenger restrictions being introduced?
The facts are simple.
Carrying multiple passengers significantly increases the risk of a P plate driver being involved in a fatal crash. The risk for P plate drivers is four times as great as the risk of driving alone or with only one passenger, as shown in this graph.
Carrying multiple passengers significantly increases the risk of an inexperienced driver crashing
Only nine percent of first year P plate drivers’ total driving and seven percent of their trips involve driving with two or more passengers. Despite this, around 26 percent of first year P plate drivers involved in fatal crashes are carrying two or more passengers.
Alcohol affected peer passengers can pose a dangerous distraction for an inexperienced driver.
A group of peer passengers can also directly and indirectly encourage more risk taking behaviour.
Why introduce peer passenger restrictions for the P1 period?
The first 12 months of driving on a P licence is when crashes most commonly occur. Therefore, limiting P plate driving to less risky driving situations in the first 12 months will help to reduce the risk of being involved in a crash.
Probationary drivers are involved in casualty crashes at three times the rate of experienced drivers (see graph below).
Probationary drivers are involved in casualty crashes at three times the rate of experienced drivers
Why are new P plate drivers involved in more crashes?
The most important factor in crashes for newly licensed P plate drivers is inexperience combined with high risk driving situations, for example driving with multiple peer passengers. Therefore EVERY P plate driver is at risk (not just ‘hoons’).
Learners under supervision rarely have crashes because they have another pair of experienced eyes to help them.
The new GLS rules: key changes
From 1 July 2008, all new probationary drivers will be covered by a two stage, four year ,, as part of Victoria’s new graduated licensing system (GLS). They’ll hold a P1 licence (shown by a red P plate) for the first 12 months, followed by a P2 licence (green P plate) for the next three years.
If they’re over 21 they will move straight to a P2 licence.
The new GLS will also involve other new measures, including:
- A new and improved on-road driving test for all learner drivers applying for a probationary licence.
- Learners under the age of 21 when they apply for their licence will be required to gain at least 120 hours driving practice.
- A complete ban on any mobile phone use for learner and P1 drivers.
- A requirement for a good driving record to progress to the next stage.
- New restrictions on driving high powered vehicles.
- No towing (unless for work or if under instruction) for P1 drivers.
- A new peer passenger restriction for P1 drivers, who will be limited to driving with one peer passenger (no multiple peer passengers allowed).
The new peer passenger restriction
P1 drivers will only be able to carry one passenger aged 16-21 years. This means that P1 drivers will not be allowed to carry multiple passengers between 16 to 21 years of age.
Allowances will be made for carrying family members, or when accompanied by a fully licensed driver (as is the case for learner drivers), or for essential activities. Exemptions to passenger restrictions will be available on the grounds of hardship.
Further details will be developed through the required Regulations.
The existing broader passenger limit imposed on first year probationary drivers who commit serious traffic offences will also be retained.
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