ash Sparks Outrage Over UK Learner Licence Loophole
A Nigerian driver who failed the UK driving test twice killed a 70-year-old pensioner after exploiting a glaring learner licence loophole, an inquest revealed.
Warning Over Foreign Learner Loophole
Timothy Kusemi, 41, was driving on a provisional British licence when he fatally crashed into Susan Whittles at a rural East Yorkshire junction on November 24, 2023. Kusemi had already failed his UK driving test twice before the fatal smash and went on to fail four more times after Ms Whittles’ death, only passing in March 2025—two and a half years after moving to the UK. Coroner Lorraine Harris blasted the “dangerous” loophole allowing foreign nationals from countries with non-equivalent driving standards, like Nigeria, to drive unsupervised without displaying L plates for up to a year after becoming UK residents. This contrasts starkly with British learner drivers who must be supervised and clearly display their inexperience.
System Puts Other Road Users at Risk
“Nationals of non-designated countries who fail a GB driving test are not treated in the same way as a GB resident who fails a GB driving test,” coroner Harris stated. “They can fail any number of tests within their first year and still keep driving without supervision or L plates, despite not meeting DVSA safety standards.”
Harris warned that this loophole “has the potential to cause serious injury or harm to other road users” and highlighted a lack of power for examiners to revoke unsupervised driving privileges for failing standards.
Crash Details and Aftermath
On the day of the tragedy, Kusemi was driving an Audi A6 northbound on Burton Road. Susan Whittles was driving a Volkswagen T-Roc with her husband, Bill, 83, eastbound on the B1253. At the crossroads, Kusemi failed to stop and give way, smashing into the side of the Whittles’ car. Emergency crews were called, but Susan Whittles died at the scene. Mr Whittles suffered life-threatening injuries, including multiple fractures and head trauma, and was airlifted to the hospital.
“Sue was a lovely wife to me and best pal over the years – we were a unit,” Bill Whittles said. “She was a much-loved Nan to Anna and Oliver, and they miss her so much. A much-respected local Preacher, Guide Leader and supporter of Riding for the Disabled – what an awful waste!”
Kusemi admitted causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving. He was jailed for six years and banned from driving for 11.
Calls for Urgent Reform
Coroner Harris has urged the Department for Transport and DVSA to review these rules, with a government response due by May 26. A spokesperson said:
“Every death on our roads is a tragedy, and our thoughts are with Susan’s family. We will carefully review the coroner’s findings from this tragic case to determine whether changes may be required.”
