Cumbria Road Safety Partnership (CRSP) said inexperience is one of the main reasons for the high number of fatalities involving young people.

Cumbria Police figures show 27 people aged between 16 and 25 have died on the county's roads so far this year.

The claims come as concern over deaths involving young drivers mounts.

Last week David Maclean, MP for Penrith and the Border, called for a high-level meeting to discuss the problem.

The number of people who have died on Cumbria's roads this year is a cause for serious concern Supt Steve Turnbull, CRSP deputy chair

But CRSP, made up of senior police, emergency services and local authority officials, said it was already doing everything possible to help reduce road fatalities.

CRSP deputy chair, Supt Steve Turnbull said: "Lack of experience, knowledge and skill can play a part in the case of young drivers.

"In this regard the partnership is exploring the possibility of seeking a change in legislation to introduce stronger safeguards for young and inexperienced drivers, similar to measures that already exist in other countries."

"The number of people who have died on Cumbria's roads this year is a cause for serious concern."

Mr Maclean called for a conference to be held between local police, safety experts, council leaders and young people to raise awareness of the problem.

But Supt Turnbull said: "We welcome Mr Maclean's interest in this important issue. However, it is important that a true picture is presented to the public, particularly to provide reassurance.

"None of the partnership members is complacent and we will continue in our efforts to reduce road traffic casualties in Cumbria."