Woman 'let down' by new road safety strategy
Jane RadfordA mother whose 17-year-old son died in a car crash shortly after passing his driving test says she is "disappointed" with the government's proposed new road safety strategy.
Jane Radford from Horsham, West Sussex, has been campaigning for stricter legislation to protect young drivers, including a graduated licence scheme.
The Road Safety Strategy, launched on Wednesday by the Department for Transport (DfT), includes proposals to introduce a minimal learning period of up to six months,
Radford told BBC Radio Sussex: "As a mum of a 17-year-old killed in a collision only a month after passing his test, I do feel really let down by the detail in this road strategy."
She said: "Many more would lose their lives or be seriously injured as a result of this lack of action, when they could be saved."
Radford's son, Will, died on 13 June 2024, after losing control of his car and collided with an oncoming vehicle.
He was giving a friend a lift home from college when he lost control as he approached a right hand bend on the A281 Brighton Road, in Horsham.
His car spun and crossed the carriageway before being hit by a vehicle travelling in the opposite direction.
Will was ejected from the vehicle and was taken to hospital, but died three days later.
According to government figures, drivers aged 17 to 24 represent just 6% of licence holders but are involved in 24% of fatal and serious collisions.
Graduating licence schemes are available in countries including Australia, New Zealand and parts of the United States.
Radford argued this scheme could help save lives.
"It's very concerning our government is not taking steps to protect young drivers, [I am] disappointed," she added.
The Road Safety Strategy also proposes compulsory eye tests for drivers over 70 years old and a new lower drink driving limit.
The DfT has been contacted for comment.
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