“I never thought this would happen to us”

At the start of our month-long operation to remove drink and drug drivers from the 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.

She asks “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.  

In Warwickshire, drink or drug driving is a factor in one in seven fatal or serious crashes. It’s why our officers are stepping up roadside tests this festive season. Because behind every statistic is a family like Victoria’s.

“I don’t want this to happen to anyone else.” Victoria says. 

“Think before you drive and don’t risk it.” Is her message.

Victoria’s 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 0% drinks if you are getting behind the wheel

Victoria’s message to parents:

• 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.

She’s asking other parents to speak up before it’s too late.

Studies show that teens whose parents are actively engaged like this are significantly less likely to engage in risky driving behaviours.

Why not take a moment to read this article written by Dr Elizabeth Box with more advice for parents and watch our webinar From Learner to Licensed: Parental Support for New Drivers.

The driver who crashed that night pleaded guilty. His sentence?

• 16 months in prison (suspended for two years)
• 250 hours unpaid work
• Three year driving ban
• Alcohol treatment and overnight curfew

But no sentence can undo the damage to Amelia’s life.

This Christmas, don’t let a night out turn into a lifetime of regret.

Our officers will be out in force as part of Op Limit, the national drink and drug driving crackdown.

Make the right choice—for yourself, your friends, and your family.

PLEASE NOTE: Audio from Victoria is available to media on request of her advice to parents and young drivers this festive season.