I am often asked if police officers target P-platers. The answer is both yes and no.

As a general rule we don't need to target young drivers, they more often than not bring enough attention on themselves and this may give the impression that we stop them more frequently.

They have far less experience and far more restrictions than most drivers and are known for some risk taking decision making.

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If I was to discuss alcohol effected drivers, my experience tells me that far more 35-plus male and female drivers have been over the alcohol limit than I've seen of young driver.

Perhaps zero alcohol limit is the way to go.

Here are some rules Red P-plate driver must adhere to:

Peer Passenger - you must not drive a vehicle with more than one passenger (other than the driver) who is under 21, between 11pm and 5am.

Without darkening the article with doom and gloom, I do want to say that if you are lucky enough to have your son or daughter stopped by the police whilst driving and if his or her licence is suspended then thank your God that your child is there to tell you.

There are many good things with today's Red P-plater drivers, they have far more learner experience than their parents. The testing and resources for young drivers are endless, and they must pass hazard testing and a driving test to drive.

One area I continue to rave about, and I'm in full support of, is the 120 hours. The unnatural bond that sometimes accidentally occurs between parent and child during those hours has been great for my family and I'm sure many others.

Good Luck p-platers. Remember give plenty of room to L-platers.

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