By JESSE GRAHAM
THE HILLS community has given mixed responses to Assistant Commissioner Robert Hill’s call for young drivers to remain on probationary licences until the age of 25 years.
Mr Hill’s idea would mean that young drivers would have to maintain a zero blood-alcohol-content (BAC) and not be able to drive high-powered vehicles for an extra three years.
The plan would aim to cut the road toll by reducing deaths in the 18-25 year age group, which currently makes up around a quarter of all road-related deaths in Victoria.
Mount Evelyn resident and P-Plate driver Matt Bryce agrees with the proposal.
“The only real difference would be that you can’t drink, and you shouldn’t be drinking then driving anyway,” he said.
If the proposal were to be enacted, then probationary drivers would also be unable to drive high-powered vehicles, such as V8s, for longer.
However, probationary drivers who need to drive high-powered vehicles for work reasons can apply to VicRoads for an exemption from the rule, under strict circumstances.
“I can’t drive a high-powered vehicle, but I don’t need anything faster and young drivers need as much experience as possible – it’s more of a want than a need,” Mr Bryce said.
“You don’t want to be chucked out (in the world), fully licensed, get a high-powered vehicle and have a couple of beers when you don’t have the experience you need.”
The Mail asked Facebook users for their opinions on the idea and users Michael Robinson and Tim Peterson disagreed, emphasising that education was more important than restrictions.
“Hooning is most likely due to immaturity and lack of education of the road and a lack of respect,” Mr Robinson said.
“Education and proper driver training is crucial – perhaps a more stringent driving test and some professional training to develop some correct core driving skills?” Mr Peterson added.
