General News
22 July, 2024
False entries endanger drivers
Nearly a quarter of local learner drivers are falsifying their log book entries according to a Maryborough driving instructor — who says the illegal act could have dangerous consequences. Out of about 120 students enrolled in the local R U Safe...
Nearly a quarter of local learner drivers are falsifying their log book entries according to a Maryborough driving instructor — who says the illegal act could have dangerous consequences.
Out of about 120 students enrolled in the local R U Safe Driving School, its owner David Hendrickson believes that in the last six months, roughly 30 could have potentially forged their log books.
These statistics are lower than the Australian average, which is almost twice as high with close to 50 percent of motorists exaggerating hours, as revealed by a recent Budget Direct survey.
While local numbers aren’t at par with the national figure, Mr Hendrickson said any level of misreporting is concerning.
“It’s a big issue,” he said.
“Inexperience could get someone killed and put other road users at risk.”
In Victoria, to secure your probationary licence, drivers under the age of 21 must complete 120 hours of supervised driving, including 20 during the night.
“If you break that down, it’s only three weeks of full-time work, that’s all it is,” Mr Hendrickson said.
“Putting that into context, if someone were to apply for a job with only three weeks’ of experience, they wouldn’t get hired.
“So, even though some people think 120 hours is a lot, they’re actually not getting a lot of experience — fudging numbers on top of that, with parents signing off on it, you’re risking lives.”
Six years ago, VicRoads launched its myLearners app to allow drivers to digitally log their hours and track their progress.
But, Mr Hendrickson said some students have found a loophole around the technology.
“We’ve noticed that often the kids are getting on buses, then they start the app and record it as a drive,” he said.
“Their parents sign off on it in the end.
“They don’t tell me what they’re doing but all the signs are there. Unfortunately, you can’t prove it and we can see that these kids can drive a car, but can they drive it safely — no, they can’t.”
Apart from the threat to life, falsifying log books can also lead to the payment of a hefty price.
“Upon completion of the 120 hours, there’s a declaration that needs to be signed and if you haven’t actually driven for that required amount then you’re basically forging a legal document,” Mr Hendrickson said.
According to VicRoads, attempting to obtain a licence “through a false statement, misrepresentation or other dishonest means, including falsely completing any part of your Learner Log Book” could lead to a significant fine or imprisonment for up to two months.
“Just put the necessary time into driving,” Mr Hendrickson said.
“If you’re a parent or supervisor, ensure the student does the [right] thing — take the time out to instruct them.
“Getting that experience is often life-saving so teach and equip them with the skills they need to drive safely.”