Drivers
All drivers
98% of collisions are caused by human error. Each year approx. 1,700 people die on roads in Great Britain. Our Devon collision data dashboard shows 353 people either died or were seriously injured in road traffic collisions in 2022 in Devon.
The most risky behaviours, often known as the ‘Fatal Five’, are the main causes of serious injuries and deaths on the region’s roads:
- Inappropriate or excessive speed
- Not wearing a seatbelt
- Driver distractions, e.g. driver using a mobile phone
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Careless or inconsiderate driving
Devon and Cornwall Police give tips and advice for all drivers on driving safely and there is more general guidance in the Highway Code.
Share this Space gives guidance on sharing the road with others including giving people walking and cycling plenty of time and space. Be alert, be patient and be nice!
Child car seats
The following websites give advice on which choosing, buying and fitting the correct child car seat.
Good Egg Car Safety – supported by the government and road safety organisations.
Short films from RoSPA to help you select a seat that matches your child’s weight and height.
gov.uk – the rules on child car seats.
RoSPA – choosing and using child car seat
Find a child car seat safety advisor in the South West
Car Seat Smarter – six short films on how to keep children safe on every car journey
Younger drivers
Young drivers – Vision Safe is aiming to reduce young driver collisions (visionzerosouthwest.co.uk)
Young males aged 17-24 are four times more likely to be killed or seriously injured compared with car drivers aged 25 or over – and young male drivers are more likely to crash with passengers in the car.
The Mates Matter campaign is calling on friends to do what they do best – look out for each other.
Specifically calling for mates to intervene and stop their mates when they are tempted to drink driving.
The Honest Truth, Learn 2 Live and Road Safety Knowledge Centre Young Drivers section have advice, guidance and support for young drivers.
Modified exhaust systems
It’s illegal to modify the exhaust system to make a vehicle noisier after it has been ‘type approved’ (checked it meets environmental and safety standards).
Driving for work
Business Drivers – Vision Safe aims to reduce business driver collisions (visionzerosouthwest.co.uk)
An estimated one third of road traffic collisions in Britain involve someone at work according to the Road Safety Observatory. They also state that “For the majority of people, the most dangerous thing they do while at work is to drive.
The Road Safety Knowledge Centre Driving for Work section has guidance, reports and research to help all those who drive for work.
Driving for Better Business programme works on the simple idea that employers have a role to play in the safety of drivers.
Older drivers
Free advice to help older drivers to continue driving safely.
IAM RoadSmart Mature Driver Review
For many older people in Devon a driving licence is an important symbol of independence. Cars make it easier to go shopping, get to appointments and keep in touch with friends. We are committed to helping people to retain their independent mobility whilst remaining safe on the road.
While some older drivers may be able to continue driving well into their 80s and 90s it’s important for them to regularly assess their driving and make adjustments if necessary.
Frequently asked questions
- When does my driving licence expire?
Most UK car driving licences are valid until your 70th birthday, when you must apply for a new three-year licence by completing a declaration that you are still fit to drive.
- How do I know what medical conditions I need to declare to DVLA and if I do will I lose my licence?
There are a number of medical conditions which you have to declare to the DVLA Check with your GP who can assess your fitness to drive. Notification will not automatically lead to your licence being revoked. You can be fined up to £1,000 if you do not tell DVLA about a medical condition that affects your driving.
- I think some of my family are worried about my ability to drive safely. What should I do?
Book on an assessment(see above section) and have a chat with your GP too.
- I have been told that automatic cars are easier to drive. Is this true?
If you are considering changing to an automatic car have a familiarisation session with an Advanced Driving Instructor.
- I am thinking of stopping driving and getting back on my bicycle. Can you help?
Book a free two-hour 1-1 cycle confidence session. Our sessions are tailored to your needs and we can meet near where you live. See our Safe Cycling tips too!
Other useful links
- How to Share this Space with others.
- Devon County Council Collision Data Dashboard
- gov.uk – Driving
- Oldermobility– bringing together highways authorities, researchers, charities and transport operators to improve mobility for an ageing population.
- Road Safety Knowledge Centre – guidance, policies, research and help forum.