The notion that young people should not be allowed to drive at night is ridiculous, according to Adrian Walsh, the director of RoadSafe .
Mr Walsh made the comment in light of recent research which suggested that banning young motorists from driving at night, drinking alcohol and carrying passengers of a similar age could save hundreds of lives a year.
A graduated driver licensing could save up to 200 lives every year, avoid 14,000 casualties, and save the UK £890 million, researchers at Cardiff University has claimed.
However, Mr Walsh has labelled these proposals an "infringement of young people's liberty".
"There are some very good new approaches to education which relate to training the mind and teaching young people how to manage risk which are proving very successful," he added.
"These alternative options really need to be backed by government, not simply introducing an old fashioned graduated driver licensing system ."
Mr Walsh advised young motorists to ensure that they have adequate car insurance in place.
In sharp contrast, car insurer swiftcover.com has welcomed the idea of special licences for 17 to 19-year-old motorists.




