DRIVERS facing conviction could shortly be offered a second chance with lessons from the police to improve their behaviour on the road.

Now instead of being prosecuted for driving without due care and attention, some drivers will be given the chance to re-train on a one and a half day course.

If they pass after completing the course, no further action will be taken.

The courses cost £100 are are being run by the County Council at the Road Safety Centre based at Ewood, Blackburn.

People attending will spend a morning discussing drivers' attitudes, the causes of accidents and generally brushing up on the skills a safe driver needs.

The rest of the time is spent in a vehicle with an authorised driving instructor and concentrates on improving weaknesses and problem areas.

Lancashire's accident prevention officer, Police Inspector Peter Stas said: "This scheme is designed to improve the standards of driving of people who have committed offences.

"Normally they would be prosecuted, receive a fine and penalty points on their licence while continuing to drive in the same manner.

"Statistics have shown that drivers involved in blameworthy accidents are likely to be involved in similar ones within three years. The course is intended to break the pattern and reduce accidents in future.

"We hope that it will have a positive effect on reducing casualties in the county by raising driving standards, and we are delighted that the county council's road safety unit is supporting us."

The idea has already taken off in other parts of the country. If pilot schemes succeed it will be extended to every part of Lancashire.

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