Higher standards

Sir,

I drive about 2,000 miles a week on our motorways, and I agree that it is high time something was done about the standard of driving in Britain.

Most accidents are caused by the slow driver. The one who moves into the overtaking lane, regardless of the volume and speed of approaching vehicles from behind. They sutler from a false sense of security; they think that the vehicle that collides with their rear-end is always at fault. This is not so. In my opinion the following changes may help:

1. A minimum speed limit in each lane, viz: 60, 65, 70 on a three-lane motorway.

2. Road hogs who use the overtaking lanes as driving lanes should be penalised.

3. At the moment if you pass your test on automatic you are only allowed to drive an automatic. If you pass your test you should get a licence that entitles you to drive in a town or in the country only. After six months driving experience and a few lessons on the motorway a full licence can be obtained.

4. The Highway Code is an excellent guide to good driving, but it is not law. It should be.

5. All vehicles restricted to 50 mph should only be allowed on a motorway between 7pm-7am. During these hours the minimum speed limits can be reduced.

6. On-the-spot fines for motorway offences, as on the Continent, should be introduced. This will, I’m sure, bring about an immediate improvement in the standard of driving.

Plymouth N. L. BAILES