Sky News shines a light on the hidden victims of road crashes

Sky News continued its outstanding coverage of the need for stronger driver licensing in the UK last week - this time focusing on the emergency services who deal daily with the aftermath of road crashes.

The powerful report, fronted by journalist Dan Whitehead, highlighted the unseen emotional toll on doctors, paramedics and other frontline responders who witness the devastation caused by road collisions, many involving young drivers.

At Derriford Hospital, Professor Tim Nutbeam, Consultant in Emergency Medicine, spoke about the lasting impact of these experiences and why Graduated Driving Licensing (GDL) must be part of the solution. He said:

“I believe in evidence-informed practice, and for me the evidence from Canada and other parts of the world is really strong. I believe that GDL saves lives. I’ve got four children - one of them will be driving in a couple of years - and I as a parent will be making sure that a similar structure to GDL is in place to try and keep her safe.”

Alongside professionals, bereaved families were given a national platform to share their experiences. Naomi Crane, whose 19-year-old son Sonny Jasper Crane died as a passenger in a crash in 2021, spoke courageously live on Sky News. She said:

“The driver of the car that Sonny was in had held her licence for just 24 days. We’re giving them killing machines. You go from having lessons where it’s ‘turn left at the next roundabout’ to putting them in a car with their mates, playing music, chatting - it’s a recipe for disaster.

Sonny isn’t a statistic. He’s my son. Death is restrictive - not safety. Graduated Licensing is about giving them their freedom and letting them live long enough to enjoy it.”

Her words reflect the human cost behind the statistics, not just for families but for the emergency responders, hospital staff and communities who live with the consequences of every crash.

Sky’s commitment to this issue has been exceptional. Their recent features have taken months to research and produce, showing a rare depth of care and understanding for the complex, human side of road safety.

Their coverage has shone a national spotlight on an issue too often overlooked: the urgent need for stronger licensing to protect young drivers, support bereaved families and lessen the devastating toll on the emergency services.

To learn more or join the campaign, visit Protect Young Drivers.