P-plater Sam Ranson has partnered with RAC and SDERA to develop the competition which is designed to address the perceptions around novice drivers and to get people talking about the learner-driver experience.
RAC General Manager Corporate Affairs Will Golsby said RAC was giving schools a chance to win a share of $25,000 by communicating the Plea Plater message in a creative way.
“It’s great to see students like Sam coming up with their own ideas to improve the safety of their friends and peers,” Mr Golsby said.
“Last year people aged 17 to 19 had the highest age specific fatality rate. Initiatives like Plea Platers aim to highlight the importance of road safety and help reduce the number of people being killed or seriously injured on our roads.
“Positive role-modelling is also an important teaching tool for novice drivers. Parents and supervisory drivers have a big part to play especially when it comes to setting a good example.”
RAC’s 2015 free2go Young Driver Survey revealed that almost two thirds (59%) had seen their parent or guardian drive while speeding at more than 10km/h over the limit, while a third (34%) had seen their parent or guardian drive while talking on the phone.
The competition will encourage students to make a plea to other drivers to show:- They are responsible and sensible drivers;
- Their driving is influenced by those who teach them; and
- Courteous driving makes learning to drive a better experience.
Sam Ranson, a Hale School graduate said even though P-plate drivers have just completed months of training and passed a stringent practical assessment, they still lack experience.
“I’m hoping the Plea Platers competition will promote a culture where novice drivers can gain the experience they need without the burden of a negative stereotype.”
The competition will run until the end of the second school term this year and winners will be announced shortly after.
Visit the website or the Plea Platers Facebook page for more information.
Media Contact: RAC Media Office 0401 703 719
