Coulthard encourages youngsters to let their ideas drive the future

Formula One Racing star David Coulthard is waving farewell to the fast lane and encouraging young drivers to share their ideas on how we can produce better, safer drivers.

He is backing the government's campaign and four month nation-wide consultation tour in a bid to collect public thoughts on how to overhaul driver testing and training and make Britain's roads safer.

David may be retiring, but he urges those starting out on their driving career to have their views heard on proposals for improved driver training and testing. Although the number of people killed in road accidents fell by seven per cent between 2006 and 2007 it still remains that 30,720 people were killed or seriously injured on our roads. David said: "One in five deaths on British roads involves newly-qualified drivers. I was appalled to hear that the statistics are so high. I know how much young people enjoy the freedom that driving brings, but it is also a huge responsibility that must be taken seriously.

"Changing the way that people are taught to drive, and making the test more real, can only be of benefit. The Government has set out proposals to change this system - and now it's up to you to have your say. We all use our roads in one way or another so it is important you register your view before the consultation closes."