The European Union is set to introduce major changes to the Driving Licence Directive, but the proposed measures are causing much controversy.
The plan to lower the minimum age for truck and bus drivers and allow 16-year-olds to drive motor vehicles has drawn fierce criticism. Road safety experts warn that the relaxations will primarily serve economic interests, not road safety.
One of the most discussed changes is the proposal to lower the minimum age for truck drivers to 17, provided they are accompanied. In addition, 18-year-olds would be allowed to drive buses with passengers. This is a cause for concern, especially since scientific research in countries such as Finland and Germany shows that young drivers have a higher risk of accidents.
Young drivers often lack the driving experience needed to safely operate large vehicles. The complex operation of trucks and buses requires quick reactions and good judgment, skills that only develop with years of experience on the road. In addition, young people are more likely to exhibit risky behavior. Studies show that young drivers are more likely to drive too fast or become distracted.
Lowering the age for bus drivers in particular leads to misunderstanding. A bus driver is not only responsible for driving a large vehicle, but also for the safety of dozens of passengers. Road safety organizations are calling for stricter requirements and better training for drivers, instead of relaxations that could endanger lives.
risky measure
Another notable change is the proposal to allow 16-year-olds to drive vehicles up to 2500 kilograms with a B1 licence, provided they are equipped with a speed limiter. This is similar to the Swedish model of 'A-tractors', vehicles that are not allowed to drive faster than 30 km/h. In Sweden, however, this regulation has already led to major problems:
Many young people bypass the speed limiters, which causes them to drive too fast. Other drivers become frustrated by extremely slow vehicles, which leads to dangerous overtaking manoeuvres. Enforcement of the rules proves difficult, which creates additional challenges for the police.
The EU must ensure that road safety does not play a subordinate role in decision-making. Road safety must not be the victim of political compromises and economic interests.
According to the EU, this measure should give young people more mobility, especially in rural areas. However, critics argue that mobility should not come at the expense of road safety. A better solution would be to invest in safe and sustainable transport options, such as improved public transport or alternative driver training.
alcohol ban
One of the few proposals that is supported by road safety organisations is the total ban on alcohol for young and novice drivers. Alcohol plays a major role in road accidents among young people, and a zero-alcohol policy could reduce the number of accidents. However, this measure seems to be failing due to political resistance. Some Member States want to keep their own rules, which prevents a uniform and effective approach at European level.
The lack of widespread support for an alcohol ban is striking, especially since research shows that a strict alcohol limit can save lives. The Netherlands currently has a limit of 0,2 per mille for novice drivers, while other EU countries still allow 0,5 per mille. Traffic experts are calling for a European standard where young drivers are not allowed to drink any alcohol at all when they get behind the wheel.
political interests
The proposed changes to the driving license directive seem to be driven primarily by economic and political considerations. Transport companies are struggling with a dire shortage of truck drivers and hope that a lower age limit can partly solve this problem. But experts warn that lowering safety requirements is not the right solution to personnel problems.
The proposal to give 16-year-olds a B1 driving licence seems to be aimed primarily at solving mobility problems in rural areas. However, road safety organisations are sceptical. Instead of creating additional risks on the road, the EU should focus on improving traffic education and alternative transport options.
safety must come first
Although the European Union is aiming for a harmonised driving licence system, the proposed changes seem to be more focused on economic interests than on road safety. Policymakers should reconsider their plans and implement measures that actually contribute to safer road traffic.
Lowering the minimum age for truck and bus drivers without additional safety measures is risky.
Allowing 16-year-olds to drive vehicles with a B1 licence can lead to dangerous situations and is difficult to enforce. A zero alcohol policy for young drivers is an effective measure, but is not sufficiently supported by all EU Member States.
