'Fatal four' young drivers campaign

As we head into autumn, Suffolk Police are working to raise awareness amongst young drivers and riders about the fatal four.

The fatal four are the four most common factors involved in collisions where people are killed or seriously injured. They are:

1. Excess speed
2. Using a mobile phone for any purpose
3. Failing to wear a seatbelt
4. Drink/drug driving

Officers will be engaging with young drivers and riders (those aged 16-29) who are committing any of the above offences. By doing this, we as a force are able to protect roads users and reduce the number of people who come to harm.

In Suffolk in 2023, a young driver was found to be involved in more than a third (38%) of all collisions where someone was seriously injured or killed.

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

Proactive patrols will be used by roads policing officers, unmarked police vehicles, motorcyclists from the Road Casualty Reduction Team. The Safety Camera Partnership Team will also be present throughout the month targeting drivers choosing to speed.

Chief Inspector Vicky McParland, of the joint Roads and Armed Policing Team said: “Getting your driving license 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.”

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.”

Looking for a way to give your young driver the best start on the road? Look no further – Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership is hosting a national webinar for young drivers and parents on Wednesday 25 September at 7pm via Teams. Learn all the essential tips for safe driving. Sign up here.