Drivetech

Northern Ireland has today become the first part of the UK to introduce Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL). This is a major step forward for evidence-led road safety. Drivetech strongly supports this move and welcome the recognition of the heightened risk new drivers face immediately after passing their test.

Leo Taylor, Director of Drivetech commented:
“Northern Ireland becoming the first part of the UK to introduce Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) is a hugely significant milestone for road safety, and one that reflects what evidence has been telling us for years.

“At Drivetech, we know all too well the most vulnerable time for a driver isn’t when they’re learning to drive. It’s in the months immediately after passing their test. During this period, the skills new drivers need to become fully competent, including risk awareness, decision-making and managing distraction, are still developing. These skills come under particular pressure for newer drivers when driving at night, or when carrying other passengers.

“This reform recognises this critical adjustment period, giving young drivers the space to build experience more safely. We hope today’s announcement paves the way for similar action across the rest of the UK. The AA’s own analysis shows at least 58 lives could be saved every year through this type of measure."

Find out more about the reform of driver tests and licencing in Northern Ireland here:
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Northern Ireland's new drivers to face major licensing changes from October Liz Kimmins says the introduction of graduated driver licences shows how serious officials are when it comes tackling road safety.

Brake's Road Safety Week 2025 is here, and the conversation matters more than ever.

Despite a slight fall in road fatalities last year, older drivers remain disproportionately affected, accounting for 22% of deaths and 8% of all casualties. At Drivetech, we believe targeted action is essential. That’s why we’re calling for refresher training via insurance discount incentives and confidence-building courses for drivers aged 70+, helping them stay safe and mobile for longer.

As Leo Taylor, our Director, says: “With one in five road deaths now among people aged 70 and over, we need to do more than celebrate small declines. We need to act.”

Throughout Road Safety Week, we’ll be sharing practical safe driving tips, so stay tuned!

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www.drivetech.co.uk

Bridge strikes aren’t just a nuisance. They’re a risk to lives, livelihoods and logistics.

One incident in Eccles this summer left 20 injured. Three seriously. One bridge strike can disrupt thousands of journeys and end a driver’s career in seconds.

We need to ask the tough questions. Why do these collisions keep happening?

It’s not just about missed signs. It’s about over-confidence, poor route planning, reliance on sat navs that weren’t built for commercial vehicles, and fatigue that chips away at judgement.

Our training focuses on four rules every driver should know by heart:
✔ Stop if you’re unsure. Every time.
✔ Know your vehicle height like you know your date of birth.
✔ Plan your route and check for restrictions.
✔ If diverted, pull over and ask. Don’t guess.

And regulators are watching. Network Rail logged 1,532 bridge strikes last year. The Office of the Traffic Commissioner has made it clear: operators who don’t act face consequences.

Bridge strike prevention isn’t optional. It’s compliance. It’s safety. It’s common sense.

Find out what you can do to prevent bridge strikes:
🔗https://www.drivetech.co.uk/bridge-strike-prevention-starts-with-education/

We’re thrilled to announce that Drivetech has won the Risk Management Award at the prestigious Business Car Awards in London! 🏆

This recognition reflects our steadfast commitment to enhancing road safety and empowering fleet operations through innovative risk management solutions. Our message is clear: no matter the size or type of your fleet, and wherever in the world you operate, our software, solutions and expert trainers are here to help reduce road injuries and fatalities.

We’re also proud that our colleagues from The AA - Business Services were honoured with the Wellbeing Award, reinforcing our shared purpose of putting people first, on and off the road.

👏 A huge congratulations to all involved. These awards are a testament to the impact we’re making together.

Are you ready to expand your skills and make a real impact in fleet safety?

Drivetech’s DVSA Fleet Accreditation Course gives individuals the tools and qualifications to deliver high-quality, DVSA-approved training to fleet drivers - whether you’re an independent trainer or looking to enhance your in-house expertise. 📋

Why add the Fleet DVSA Accreditation to your portfolio? 🤔

✔️ Position yourself as a trusted expert with DVSA-recognised credentials.

✔️ Gain the confidence and capability to train fleet drivers across sectors, helping them to drive more safely and effectively.

✔️ Open new avenues for career advancement and professional growth in fleet training.

👉 Ready to enhance your professional portfolio and make a difference? Read our blog to discover how to become a DVSA-accredited fleet trainer today and find course dates.

🔗 Get all of the info here - https://www.drivetech.co.uk/become-a-dvsa-accredited-fleet-trainer/

Unlock New Opportunities: Become a DVSA Accredited Fleet Trainer | Drivetech Corporate Human error accounts for 95% of road collisions. For those driving for work, the risk is significantly higher—one-third of all road deaths involve someone on the job. Employers have a duty to prioritise driver safety, manage risk and maintain compliance.