THERE is still further to go when it comes to road safety measures, says Warwickshire’s police and crime commissioner.
Philip Seccombe has welcomed the Government’s long-awaited Road Safety Strategy, but believes more could have been included, notably stronger measures to protect young drivers and save lives by introducing Progressive Driving Licences.
The strategy sets out plans to tackle the devastating impact of collisions on UK roads by focusing on people, vehicles, roads, and enforcement.
Headline proposals within the strategy include new powers to suspend driving licences for those suspected of drink or drug driving offences, consultation on mandatory eye tests for drivers over the age of 70, lowering the drink drive limit, particularly for younger drivers, and consultation on introducing a three or six month minimum learning period for learner drivers.
But Mr Seccombe feels that the strategy should go further if it hopes to meet the Government’s own aim of reducing the number of deaths and serious injuries on the country’s roads by 65 per cent by 2035.
He said: “I am pleased to see that this Government has finally published its strategy and provided the public with a commitment to reducing deaths and serious injuries on our roads. The impact of collisions is felt across the country, and keenly here in Warwickshire. Any steps to reduce the stark figures we see each year is welcomed.
“However, I believe that the Government can, and must, go further to protect some of the most vulnerable people on our roads – young and newly qualified drivers. I know the lack of commitment to implementing Progressive Driving Licences for young drivers will come as a significant disappointment to the bereaved families who have long been campaigning for such measures to come into place and protect future young drivers.”
Road traffic collisions are the second leading cause of death among 15 to 24-year-olds in the country, with other countries adopting a staged approach to acquiring driving licenses, ultimately saving young lives.
The PCC has also expressed his disappointment that the strategy does not provide a mechanism for the revenue generated locally by speeding fines to be invested back into local road safety initiatives.
Over £3.5million in fines went to the Treasury from Warwickshire in the 2024/2025 financial year.
