About 50 young drivers are needed to try out new technology aimed at reducing car accidents caused by inexperience.
Staffordshire County Council is looking for volunteers to take part in a six-month trial of a gadget which identifies bad habits in newly-qualified drivers.
It is the first authority in the country to conduct research into the new equipment which is believed to have greatly reduced accidents in America.
A black box is fitted on to car dashboards to monitor acceleration rates, when drivers hit the brakes and the G-force created at corners.
Data is then automatically uploaded on to the internet, where a traffic light system shows how safely the young person drives.
Councillor Carol Dean, cabinet member for road safety, said: “I am confident this will be a life saver here in Staffordshire.
“If the scheme is a success, we are hopeful insurers will offer incentives to young drivers who take up the option, which is a bonus.”
The council is looking to find volunteers in time for the official launch of the scheme next month.
During the first month, the young people will be monitored without any feedback, so that data can be drawn up about their normal driving style.
They can then start looking at their driving performance on-line.
After the first month, a tiny display panel on top of the dashboard will also be used in the young person’s car.
It will give them red light messages while driving in order to point out any dangerous manoeuvres.
The more red lights, the more likely the driver is to be involved in an accident.
The young people can then pinpoint their weaknesses and seek feedback from other family members for their improvement.
Road safety manager Adrian Hide said: “This cunning device can graphically illustrate where they could go wrong.
“It’s important to get parents on board because they often buy and insure their offspring’s first car for them.”
The council has bought the gadget to help young drivers improve their driving skills and avoid accidents and high insurance costs.
It is also hoped the device will help families cut carbon emissions by encouraging smoother driving.
If the trials prove to be successful, the council will approach other authorities to encourage them to use the equipment as well.
Anyone who wants to join in or talk through the scheme should call Adrian Hide on 01785 276617.
Source: This is Staffordshire
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