IAM RoadSmart Lincolnshire partners Lincolnshire PCC to provide free Advanced Driving Courses for 50 young drivers

YOUNG drivers will get the chance to improve their motoring skills and stay safe on the road under a new project launched by the Police and Crime Commissioner.

PCC Marc Jones has partnered with IAM RoadSmart, formerly the Institute of Advanced Motorists, in Lincolnshire to provide funding for 50 drivers aged under 25 to take an advanced driving course free-of-charge.

The scheme is seen as a crucial step in reducing the high casualties among young drivers in the county.

Across Lincolnshire in 2018 there were 512 incidents in which people were killed or seriously injured – including 56 fatal crashes. Of the 512 incidents, 132 involved a driver aged 17 to 24 – up from 104 in the previous year.

The idea for the project came after Mr Jones undertook the Advanced Driving Course and test himself – securing the highest pass mark of a 'F1RST' after nine weeks of training with a local IAM Lincolnshire volunteer observer.

"The death and injury toll on our roads is of real concern and I have made it a priority to address this issue," said Mr Jones.

"Having undertaken the advanced driving course myself, I know that my own driving and observational skills have improved and how valuable the course can be in alerting drivers to potential dangers and, hopefully therefore, in helping them avert tragedy. If just one serious injury, or death, can be avoided then it will be worth every penny of investment.

"This is just one of many initiatives I am pursuing to address road safety and I will continue to seek new and innovative ways to keep our highways safe for the people of Lincolnshire."

IAM RoadSmart advanced driver courses normally cost £149 and focus on developing a range of skills including car control, observation, optimum road positioning, management of speed and the ability to identify and deal with hazards including other road users’ behaviour. After an average of ten one-hour on-road sessions in their own car, with a qualified observer, applicants take an advanced driving test. Once passed, drivers receive a certificate and become a member of IAM RoadSmart.

Applicants for the scheme, which will be officially launched on September 25th, can apply online or by phone and will need to pay a refundable £50 deposit which they get back after completing the course.

Chair and Chief Observer of IAM RoadSmart Lincolnshire, Roger Hicks, said he was very pleased that the PCC had elected to take his Advanced Driving Course with the Lincolnshire group and that as a result he has agreed to sponsor 50 young driver placements.


PCC, Marc Jones, pictured with IAM Lincolnshire Chief Observer, Roger Hicks, presenting his certificate

IAM RoadSmart CEO, Mike Quinton, is delighted to support the initiative.

"We appreciate the lead Marc has taken by successfully completing the Advanced Driving Course and his support in helping our Lincolnshire group further develop the skills of younger drivers," he said.

"Getting 50 young advanced drivers on the roads is a big boost to local road safety. We hope they will talk about their experiences with friends and family to spread the word more widely about the importance of improving driving skills."

Some insurance companies offer discounts for drivers who hold the advanced driving qualification and IAM RoadSmart has its own insurance company which offers preferential rates to members.

To apply for the course contact us at iamlincolnshire@outlook.com providing your name, address, contact number and date of birth and we'll be in touch.