Accidents are more likely in the first 12 months at the wheel

Recent figures show that one in five new drivers is involved in an accident within 12 months of passing their test.

Police have teamed up with the fire and rescue service to highlight the risks of the road at an event in Sanquhar.

The dangers of drugs, talking on mobile phones and failing to use seat belts will be among the areas covered.

According to police the risks are greater in a rural area, with young drivers twice as likely to be injured on country roads compared to built-up areas.

In the most tragic of incidents there is a long-term effect on the families and friends, be it through fatality or serious injury Jim Waugh Fire and rescue service

"Every week in Scotland 17 young people are seriously injured, leaving them permanently disabled or scarred," said Insp Graham Edwards.

"Quite often it might be your best friend who is sitting as a passenger.

"That is a tragic waste of a young life from a moment's error."

Insp Edwards said young drivers frequently over-estimated their abilities or the road conditions.

He added: "We know that young drivers enjoy the sense of freedom and control that a car brings and we want them to enjoy sensible motoring.

"However, if the rules of the road are ignored then they may never get into their car again."

'Inexperienced drivers'

That view was endorsed by Jim Waugh of Dumfries and Galloway fire and rescue service.

"As a rescue service, crews are regularly called upon to deal with the aftermath of road collisions involving inexperienced drivers," he said.

"It has to be remembered that in the most tragic of incidents there is a long-term effect on the families and friends, be it through fatality or serious injury."