Young drivers in the UK are coming under increasing pressure from friends to break driving laws according to a new study.

Taking selfies at the wheel, overtaking other vehicles and exceeding the speed limit are just some of the risks that drivers are feeling peer pressured into taking. The findings come as many new drivers will be passing their driving test over the summer holidays.

Four in ten 18-25 year old drivers have felt pressure from passengers to overtake, while nearly a third are being badgered to break the legal speed limit, according to young driver insurer Marmalade.

The startling statistics come after a report by the AA found that one in five new drivers have an accident within a year of passing their driving test.

The stats also show that a fifth of young drivers have been asked by their peers to use a mobile phone at the wheel, despite being illegal since 2003. A remarkable one in 10 has felt pressure to take a photo or pose for a selfie or to take their hands off the steering wheel while driving.

Most shocking is that one in twenty was asked if they would drive after consuming alcohol.

Crispin Moger, CEO of Marmalade said: "Our study shows that some young drivers feel under increasing pressure from peers to take dangerous risks. Marmalade is calling on young drivers and their passengers to share responsibility for keeping safe on the road this summer. From agreeing to put mobile phones away, to banning backseat driving, there are simple ways to support each other and avoid high risk situations."

The figures come as over half of young drivers say they are planning to head out for a road trip this summer. For many, this will be for their first extended time on the road with friends, as estimates show around a million 17 to 25 year olds obtained their driving licence in the last year.

Last month the Department for Transport (DfT) revealed plans for a graduated license system which would restrict new drivers from driving at night and not driving with passengers under a certain age.