ABSTRACT
During the first period of solo driving, young novice drivers go through the most dangerous phase of their driving career. In line with European developments, a Dutch second phase coaching program, referred to as the ‘Drive Xperience (DX)’, has been developed for young novice drivers. The program combines the use of web-based driver assessment for learning with a full day of training and coaching. In this chapter the design principles of the program are highlighted. The empirical study focused on a description of the participating group of young drivers (n=2257) as compared to a reference group of young drivers (n=345) and a group of lease car drivers (1129), of whom the latter were involved in similar advanced driver training programs. Comparative analyses were carried out on web-based assessment data pertaining to driving history, specific risk factors, and self-images related to safe driving. Results show that the DX program attracts young drivers that show a more risky profile than average young drivers and lease car drivers in terms of speed violations, irritated driving and the number of fines. The rather positive self-image at the same time calls for attention in terms of program design. Implications of program fit to the target group are discussed.
