Advanced driver training courses are still a voluntary afterthought for many new drivers amidst seemingly more important skills such as parallel parking and three-point turns.

In a bid to increase the competency of new drivers, leading driver training experts are calling upon older drivers to undertake a defensive driving course to update their skills.

This is effectively a two pronged approach at cutting the road toll in lieu of any serious Government initiatives, with the 26-39 age category accounting for 23.9 percent of annual road deaths nationally.

This figure is exceeded only by the 17-25 year age bracket which accounts for 25.7 percent of annual road deaths across the country.

“We find that many experienced drivers who were taught by dad still think they have to pump the brakes in an emergency situation, even if the car has ABS,” Mr Stewart said.

Many older drivers have never undergone a defensive driving course, and as a result are passing on bad habits to the next generation of drivers.

Even the most seasoned of motorists still require advanced training in order to adapt to new vehicle safety technologies such as Anti-skid Braking System (ABS), traction control and stability control.

“Experience doesn’t always equate to a sound knowledge base, which is what we try to rectify with our Defensive Driving Course.”

Before your child even gets behind the wheel, experts recommend you as a parent should acquire the skills needed to be able to teach your children safe and economical driving habits.