DRIVER NEEDS: INTRODUCTION

Historically, and even today, the major initiatives used to ensure that novice drivers are insulated from the risks associated with driving have been formal driver education/training and driver licensing. The objectives of both these programs are very similar in that they attempt to ensure the novice has the skills, knowledge, and attitude to drive safely and collision-free. Unfortunately, young drivers continue to be over represented in road crashes and the problem will almost certainly increase because impending demographic changes will produce a dramatic rise in the number of young drivers. Recognition of these facts underscores the need for improving driver education/training and licensing programs. Many states are implementing graduated licensing as a means for reducing the risks encountered by novice drivers. Similar improvement is needed in driver education/training. Improving these programs can, however, have an impact on novice driver mobility. Accordingly, the safety and mobility needs of novice drivers deserve serious consideration.