Young drivers involved in more than a third of serious collisions in Suffolk last year

Young drivers were found to be involved in more than a third of all collisions in Suffolk last year where someone was seriously injured or killed.

Suffolk Police said drivers aged 16 to 29 were involved in 38 per cent of such crashes and is working to raise awareness about the ‘fatal four’ causes.

They include excess speed, using a mobile phone for any purpose, failing to wear a seatbelt and drink/drug driving.

Chief Inspector Vicky McParland, of the joint Roads and Armed Policing Team, said: “Getting your driving licence or riding a moped for the first time is really exciting.

“It is one of your first experiences of freedom and is something we all look forward to.

“It is critical that you start good habits from day one behind the wheel. Driving is a privilege, you are not invincible and failing.

“It is your responsibility to look after yourself, your passengers and other road users.

“I do not want my officers knocking on your loved one’s door, to tell them that you haven’t made it home safely.”

The campaign aims to improve driver/rider behaviour, educate young drivers around the dangers of committing these offences and provide skills and knowledge to help them drive safely.

Proactive patrols will be used by road policing officers, unmarked police vehicles and motorcyclists from the Road Casualty Reduction Team.

The Safety Camera Partnership Team will also be present throughout the month targeting drivers choosing to speed.

Tim Passmore, Police and Crime Commissioner for Suffolk, said: “It was a long time ago now, but I can clearly remember the excitement of getting my driving licence and having the freedom of the road for the first time.

“It really is a defining moment in the life of most young people.

“I wouldn’t want to take away from that excitement, but it is really important to consider the potential risks and I would ask all young riders/drivers to do everything they can to keep themselves safe, and tuning into the webinar is a good start.

“My message to new drivers is, be patient, it takes time to build experience, as an inexperienced driver/rider you are more vulnerable, take care, drive carefully and keep safe.”