Mother of Crash Victim: New Road Safety Plans are a “Golden Opportunity” Missed

Crystal Owen, who lost her 17-year-old son Harvey in a 2023 crash in North Wales, is urging the government to go further with its upcoming road safety strategy. While the government plans to introduce a mandatory learning period for new drivers, Owen argues that without Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL), the plan remains fundamentally flawed.

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The Proposed Changes vs. The Demands

The government’s strategy, set to be published this Wednesday, aims to reduce road deaths and serious injuries by two-thirds over the next decade.

Government Proposals:

• Minimum Learning Period: A mandatory gap of three to six months between passing the theory test and taking the practical driving test.
• Focus on the “Fatal Four”: Targeted crackdowns on speeding, drink/drug driving, seatbelt use, and mobile phone distractions.

Crystal Owen’s Demands:

• Passenger Restrictions: Limiting the number of same-age passengers a new driver can carry for the first six months.
• Night-time Rules: Restrictions on driving during high-risk late-night hours.
• End of “Fast-Track” Courses: Ensuring drivers spend time gaining experience in various conditions before being licensed.

Why “Graduated Licences” Matter

Owen and road safety advocates, including the AA and West Mercia Police, argue that the moment a young person passes their test is when they are at their most vulnerable.

AA President Edmund King pointed to international success stories:

“All the evidence from Australia and Canada shows that limiting the number of same-age passengers in a car for six months will save lives.”

Statistics support the urgency of the campaign: in 2024, one-fifth of all road deaths and serious injuries involved a young driver. Proponents argue that GDL is not about punishing youth, but about providing a “safety net” while they gain real-world experience.

Looking Ahead

Despite the government’s hesitancy to implement full GDL, Owen believes the “tide is turning” as public opinion shifts toward stricter protections for young drivers. The Department for Transport is expected to consult on the specific length of the minimum learning period (three vs. six months) following the strategy’s release.

For Crystal Owen, the fight continues. While she acknowledges that any improvement is a step forward, she maintains that the government is ignoring proven measures that could prevent other families from experiencing her tragedy.