Young drivers targeted in new road campaign as rising casualties prompt calls for licence restrictions

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, in collaboration with the National Fire Chiefs Council, has launched a new road safety campaign targeting drivers aged 17 to 24 to reduce casualties. This initiative addresses three main dangers identified as contributing to serious collisions: obtaining licences with minimal practical experience, driving between 11 pm and 6 am, and being distracted by young passengers. The campaign is a response to approximately 850 annual road collisions attended by fire services, many of which could have been prevented with better preparation and safer choices by young drivers. Government data shows young male drivers in this age group are four times more likely to suffer death or serious injury than older drivers. In Devon and Somerset alone during 2024, 686 individuals aged 17 to 24 were injured in road collisions, including nine fatalities and 123 serious injuries. Experts attribute the increased risk to the still-developing prefrontal cortex in young brains, which is responsible for risk assessment and planning, leading to impulsive behaviour. The campaign suggests that learner drivers should have a minimum of six months of training to experience various conditions. Newly licensed drivers are advised to avoid driving at night for the first three to six months and to limit carrying young passengers. Parents are encouraged to provide transport for groups of young people instead of allowing inexperienced drivers to take multiple passengers.... download the app to read more