Since the JAA licence came in there have been attempts decrease the problems with PPL's getting lost with the extra Nav Aids they now do. from memory PPL's are now taught some VOR's,ADF's and DME's and also taught how to do a 180 turn on instuments so after flying into bad weather than can fly back out.
Unfortunately i think the problem lies with the individuals themselves. whether it be pride or a lack of appreciation that this hobby/sport can kill!
Having run several flying clubs it has always amazed me the chances low houred, inexperienced and infrequent fliers (and some that should know better) will take to the point of having to be stopped.
eg. i even had to stop one flyer, flying to a CAA safety day, when the cloud base was 800ft (and he didnt have an IMC).
By law pilots have to take reasonable steps to get the weather (by fax,phone etc) and if in any doubt dont go.
it is far better being down here wishing you were up there than the other way round!!