I've just done my 2 yrs as a new driver.
I don't agree with making the test any harder, the DVLA is a business they need to make money therefore they want more ppl to fail. Perhaps making ppl complete a certain amount of hours on the road before being allowed out on their own is worth investigating.
I remember when I was first learning and my instructor telling me that if your a good drive u can spot other ppl making mistake and take preventative action. If all you do is shout at ppl for making mistakes you is just as bad as they are because you’re to ignorant to see an accident progressing.
Obviously the above doesn't count in extreme case but many minor accident could be avoided if all parties paid more attention. It's only my opinion and as I said above I only have 2-yr experience.
To answer Jim, I do check my blind spot and generally look around like an owl when reversing (check my other post for the exception
)
The motor bike Idea is good but I cannot support it as I have a 2.8ltr car and would therefore have to change car or be a hypocrite.