Do drivers want more training?

Fines 'do not improve driving skill', IAM argues.

Just 15 per cent of motorists believe issuing fixed penalty notices are the best way to tackle careless or dangerous driving in the UK, it has been indicated.

According a survey carried out by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), some 40 per cent of drivers think compulsory training might be a better punishment, while a third (33 per cent) believe verbal advice from a police officer could be an effective approach.

On top of this, 59 per cent of respondents said that disqualified drivers should be made to retake their driving test.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said the results show "broad support" for the government's road safety strategy, which was unveiled recently.

"Fining drivers is punitive and does not improve driving skills. Driver quality is the key issue in improving road safety," Mr Best commented.

The road safety charity recently advised motorists to regularly check their tyres in order to ensure they are correctly inflated and have enough tread.