16,000 learner drivers have been caught behind the wheel of a car without supervision or without displaying L-plates since new laws were introduced during 2008 banning learner drivers, including those who are on a second provisional licence, from driving a vehicle alone. Road safety chiefs have appealed to parents asking them to stop novice motorists from driving on their own after it was revealed that 16,132 summonses had been issued to learner drivers since laws changed in July 2008. 8,413 learner drivers were issued with summonses for driving without a fully licensed driver present.