The Truth...
See what happened when Emmerdale's Hayley Tamaddon took to Cheshire's roads.
Young drivers are the most at risk group of drivers of all. The statistics speak for themselves:
- One third of all collisions occur within 2km of the driver's home.
- Two thirds of all collisions occur within 5km of the driver's home.
- Between 2001 and 2007, 822 17-21 year olds were killed or seriously injured on Cheshire's roads.
- Most accidents in Cheshire happen in postcode areas WA7, CW7, CW1 or CH3.
- Ford Fiestas, Vauxhall Corsas or Citroen Saxos are most likely to be involved in accidents on Cheshire's roads.
- Red and blue cars are more likely to be involved in accidents.
- Speed is a factor in around one in three road deaths.
- One in five new drivers has an accident within the first 12 months of passing their test.
- New drivers are involved in 29% of all road crashes.
What Can You Do?
- Belt up — wear your seatbelt or face the real possibility of killing yourself, or someone else
- Sober up — There are no 'safe' limits. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal. If you’re going to drink, leave the car at home.
- Slow up — save the speeding and showing off for your XBOX.
- Look up — watch out for other road users and pedestrians
- Shut up — stay off your phone, texting and talking while at the wheel are illegal.
- Back up — don't tailgate other road users. Leave enough space to brake in time if necessary.
- Check up — learn how to check your tyre pressure, tread, water and oil levels and do them regularly.
For more information on staying safe, visit www.mysaferroads.org.uk.
