Young drivers in Scotland are being given the chance to improve their skills and to make the roads a safer place for all by taking part in a range of new driver training courses from the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM).

A total of 14 young motorists have graduated this month from IAM's Eildon Mill young driver project in Tweedbank, with the Scottish Borders Council (SBC) calling on more young people to follow their lead and sign up in the new year.

Across the UK, the latest full-year road safety figures from the government revealed that in 2013, 876 men and 414 women between the ages of 17 and 24 were killed or seriously injured as drivers in accidents on the nation's roads.

It is therefore important for all younger road users to be aware of the considerable dangers they face every time they get behind the wheel of a vehicle and they should do all they can to prepare themselves for the different situations that can take place when driving on the open road.

IAM operations director Pat Doughty commented: "Congratulations to the latest young motorists to have passed our advanced driver course.

"The course not only helps improve their skills and anticipation, but also confidence, which means driving can be a more enjoyable experience."

Taking the time to learn new skills and to brush up on the essentials of road safety can go a long way towards helping young motorists stay safe.

Indeed, SBC's community safety officer Paul Richardson stated: "Signing someone up for an advanced driver scheme would be a valuable Christmas gift. Along with additional skills, there is also the potential for cheaper car insurance and when the young driver passes, you will be refunded."

How can I improve the safety of my fleet and drivers?

MileageCount, the Fuel Card Group's fleet management solution offers Duty of Care support including licence checking, driver training and policy management. Let us help you today.

This story was posted by Daniel Crosby, Assistant Marketing Executive at the Fuel Card Group.