Young motorcyclists will have a night-time curfew and be banned from carrying pillion passengers under new road safety legislation.

The Graduated Licensing System will mean new riders aged 16 to 18 must start off with provisional licences while they learn how to ride competently before progressing to a full licence.

Premier and Transport Minister Ewart Brown told yesterday afternoon's Throne Speech press conference riders with provisional licences would be:

l banned from the roads between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.

l banned from carrying pillion passengers

l subject to zero alcohol or drugs tolerance

l made to undergo on-road lessons from a qualified instructor for ten hours

l made to complete the road skills training initiative Project Ride.

When they have completed a series of challenges, including on-road and knowledge tests, riders can graduate to a full licence.

New riders over the age of 18 must also spend six months as a provisional rider.

The criteria have not been confirmed yet as the system is still being devised, but the Premier told the media: "Bermuda has traditionally allowed quick and easy paths to full privilege licences.

"The introduction of graduated licensing represents a major change to our culture and although it offers a sensible, less risky way for new drivers to begin their driving careers, it may be viewed with displeasure by some in the community.

"However, with the graduated licensing programme in place, we are creating a more suitable motoring environment.

"Drivers and riders will be more educated on the risks associated with motoring, as well as better suited to deal with hazards, seen an unseen."

Applauding the move last night, Road Safety Council chairman Christopher Johnson told The Royal Gazette: "The Bermuda Road Safety Council strongly endorses the Graduated License Scheme proposed in today's Throne Speech.

"We believe that higher standards, close monitoring and mentoring of new riders will reduce injuries and fatalities on the roads of Bermuda. Graduated license schemes have worked well in other jurisdictions and we believe that Bermuda will reap similar benefits."

n More Throne Speech, Pages 4, 5, & 6