New Road Safety Strategy: ThingCo response

London, 8th January 2026: Alex Brockman, Operations Director at telematics insurtech, ThingCo, has welcomed the intent of the government’s new road safety strategy. But he urges the government to also address the period immediately after a new driver has passed their test.

“ThingCo, of course, welcomes any initiatives that will reduce road traffic accidents. But we hope the government isn’t just going for easy headlines.

“Extending the wait to take a practical test after the theory test doesn’t address the reality that the riskiest time for any driver is the first 3 months after passing their practical test, no matter how long they were learning. This is when they are suddenly driving alone.

“The aim of the government’s proposal is to reduce road deaths. However, the policymakers need to understand the different driving forces between both frequency and severity. The most serious crashes are usually driven by:

- High speed at night

- Peer pressure from young passengers/friends

- Sometimes alcohol

“Of course, a lower alcohol limit is a welcome step. But if the goal is to cut serious injuries and fatalities, there needs to be a focus on post-driving test pass exposure, not just pre-test time.”

ThingCo will be responding to the consultation where it will be highlighting the need to:

- Promote properly implemented telematics products for young drivers

- Limit young passengers for new drivers to reduce exposure to peer pressure

- Consider graduated speed limits for newly qualified drivers (like they do in Northern Ireland)