“I never thought this would happen to us.”
At the start of our month-long operation to remove drink and drug drivers from Warwickshire’s roads, a mother whose daughter was seriously injured by a drink driver has a message for parents and young drivers this festive season.
Victoria’s life changed forever on a summer night in June 2024. Her 18-year-old daughter, Amelia, was out celebrating finishing her A-levels with friends. Hours later, Victoria was standing in a hospital, praying her daughter would survive a brain injury caused by a drink driver.
The 18-year-old driver of the car Amelia was in had been drinking. He lost control and crashed into a tree.
Victoria said: “Do you want your mum to sit in a courtroom, wondering if her son is going to prison?“ That’s what the mother of this drink driver had to do. It’s devastating on both sides.
Amelia spent nine days in hospital. When she came home, Victoria and her family became her carers. Now, every month, they travel across the country for medical appointments.
The driver who crashed that night pleaded guilty. His was given a suspended 16 month prison sentence, ordered to carry out 250 hours unpaid work and given a three year driving ban.
In Warwickshire, drink or drug driving is a factor in one in seven fatal or serious crashes. Warwickshire Police will be stepping up roadside tests during Christmas and New Year.
“I don’t want this to happen to anyone else,” said Victoria. Her message is simple – “Think before you drive and don’t risk it”.
Victoria’s gave a message to drivers: “One bad choice can change everything. For you, your passengers, and your family. If you’ve been drinking or using drugs, don’t drive – ever! A drink or drug conviction could affect your freedom, social life, even your job. Always opt for no drinks if you are getting behind the wheel.”
To parents, Victoria said: “Set the ground rules. You’re not going out in a car full of friends. You’re not getting in a car with someone who’s just passed their test. Give your young adult accompanied driving experience and set boundaries to keep them safe.”
Take a moment to watch the webinar From Learner to Licensed: Parental Support for New Drivers – www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0sdQbapars
