Young drivers were involved in more than a third of all crashes where someone was seriously injured or killed in Suffolk last year, it has emerged.

Police say they will be running proactive patrols with unmarked police cars and motorcyclists from the Road Casualty Reduction Team as part of a new campaign focusing on reducing reckless driving by young people.

Suffolk police has revealed young drivers or riders - those aged 16 to 29 - were found to be involved in more than 38% of collisions in Suffolk where someone was seriously injured or killed in 2023.

Police say the campaign seeks to reduce the fatal four factors which lead to serious crashes, which include excessive speeding, using a mobile phone, failing to wear a seatbelt, and drink/drug driving. 

Chief Inspector Vicky McParland, of Suffolk police Chief Inspector Vicky McParland of Suffolk police (Image: Suffolk police) Chief Inspector Vicky McParland, of the joint Roads and Armed Policing Team, said: “Getting your driving licence or riding a moped for the first time is really exciting. It is one of your first experiences of freedom and is something we all look forward to.

“It is critical that you start good habits from day one behind the wheel. Driving is a privilege, you are not invincible and failing. It is your responsibility to look after yourself, your passengers and other road users.

“I do not want my officers knocking on your loved one’s door, to tell them that you haven’t made it home safely.”

READ MORE: Suffolk Crime News

NewsquestNewsquest (Image: Tim Passmore, Suffolk's police and crime commissioner) Tim Passmore, police and crime commissioner for Suffolk, added: “It was a long time ago now, but I can clearly remember the excitement of getting my driving licence and having the freedom of the road for the first time.

"It really is a defining moment in the life of most young people.

“I wouldn’t want to take away from that excitement, but it is really important to consider the potential risks and I would ask all young riders/drivers to do everything they can to keep themselves safe, and tuning into the webinar is a good start.

“My message to new drivers is be patient, it takes time to build experience, as an inexperienced driver/rider you are more vulnerable, take care, drive carefully and keep safe.”