Young drivers (<19) are the only ones who can change this.
Did you say how? - Easy! By avoiding some basic mistakes, you can probably outperform many older drivers! No kidding!
First, passing your driver’s license test does not make you an expert on driving! That is the ABSOLUTE MINIMUM standard and actually only shows that you can maybe read and write. The challenge will be to be able to anticipate unsafe conditions and then with the assistance of a qualified driving instructor, practice over time how to avoid them. A defensive driving course would be a good START.
ATTITUDE is everything – driving is a privilege not a right. Use that privilege very responsibly.
The most common mistake novice drivers make is to drive too aggressively. Maybe they want to show how cool they are but in reality, it has the direct opposite effect on most other normal people – they think you are an idiot.
Crash reports show the following errors to be present in most crashes where drivers under 19 were at fault
• Driving too fast for the prevailing road conditions,
• Not slowing down soon enough before stopping, turning or before going into a bend,
• Braking too hard and pulling away vigorously.
• Being distracted by mates in the car, music, cell phones, etc.
• Not focusing on their driving task.
Why is it an issue? All these actions force you into situations where your skills are pushed to the limit. In most cases due to limited experience, driver make the wrong choices or overreact and subsequently crash.