ITV regional coverage highlights the urgent need to do more to protect young drivers

Bridget Lucas spoke to ITV Meridian about the devastating loss of her son, Lawrence, in a crash

Millions of ITV viewers across England heard powerful stories from bereaved families last night as a coordinated series of regional news reports highlighted the devastating impact of young driver crashes and the urgent need for action.

Tailored reports were broadcast simultaneously across ITV Anglia, Central, Meridian, Tyne Tees, West Country and Yorkshire. Each programme featured a local bereaved parent, regional casualty data and examples of the work already taking place to improve young driver safety.

The reports also featured road safety expert Dr Neale Kinnear, who explained the evidence behind young driver risk, together with footage from the Protect Young Drivers campaign film.

Dr Neale Kinnear, who has over 20 years’ experience understanding human behaviour in transport

Regional casualty data, kindly analysed by Agilysis using the latest Department for Transport reported road casualty statistics, helped demonstrate the scale of the challenge facing individual communities across England.

While each programme reflected local experiences, they all shared one important message: too many young lives continue to be lost or changed forever on our roads, and we all have a role to play in preventing future tragedies.

Most importantly, the coverage gave bereaved families an opportunity to share their experiences in the hope of preventing others from facing the same heartbreak. Their courage in continuing to speak publicly is helping to raise awareness, encourage informed discussion and inspire action.

Rebecca Morris, Director of Engagement at Protect Young Drivers, said:

The coverage was a powerful demonstration of what can be achieved when bereaved families, researchers, charities, road safety professionals, local partnerships and campaigners come together with one shared purpose. By speaking with one voice, we can raise awareness, build momentum for action and help prevent more young driver deaths and serious injuries.

A huge thank you to Bridget Lucas, Nicola Bell-Percy, Crystal Owen and all the bereaved parents who continue to share their stories with such courage. Their voices are helping to save lives and spare other families the heartbreak they have endured.

You can watch the ITV Central report here (the feature begins around 10 minutes into the programme): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZtWKK0kg6aw