Findings from a survey conducted by a provider of student car insurance have revealed that youngsters often copy the driving behaviour of their parents.
This means that novice drivers who are found to be in violation of the road laws can apportion at least part of the blame to their mothers or fathers.
It was discovered that youngsters who have seen their parents take to the wheel while over the drink drive limit are considerably more likely to commit this offence themselves.
Similarly, newly qualified drivers who have witnessed their parents perpetrate road rage are far more likely to act in an aggressive manner while behind the wheel.
A cheap car insurance expert said, "I'm sure most parents would hate to think that the lessons they are teaching their children while they sit in the back of the car could end up in behaviour on the road that leads to a tragic road accident."
In related news, police from St Albans are on the hunt for a motorcyclist who deliberately smashed the car window of a local driver after a close scrape.
A local police officer said, "Road rage like this will not be tolerated in Hertfordshire. I would like to appeal to anyone who saw the incident take place to come forward."
It is unknown whether the motorist has made a student car insurance claim for the damage sustained by his vehicle.