There is a widespread perception that Bradford drivers are not the most careful in the country. The popular view is that not only do local motorists take risks but that the majority of risk-takers are young.

Now is the time for a rethink, if not about standards of driving then at least about the age group that always seems to take the blame, and to remind ourselves how easy it is to jump to the wrong conclusions.

New research from the West Yorkshire Casualty Reduction Partnership suggests that while boy-racers in souped-up cars have a reputation generally for reckless driving (and there is evidence from elsewhere, including the courts, to support this), at least as far as one area of dangerous driving is concerned it is older drivers who are the main offenders.

It might come as a surprise to many to learn that out of a total of 141,242 offences in West Yorkshire for speeding and jumping red lights, only 9,737 were committed by drivers aged 16-24 compared with 28,738 in the 25-34 age group and 38,529 aged 35-44.

For some reason, older and more experienced drivers are not setting the good example that ought to be expected of them. That is worrying. If those who have spent many years negotiating the traffic can't control their impatience, how can they expect younger drivers to do so?

The lesson for all of us from this is to be more patient, refuse to take risks to save a second or two's time, and not let a prejudice against the young colour our perception.