Gaming-themed driving campaign launched

A GAMING-THEMED campaign to tackle speeding among young drivers in Dumfries and Galloway has been launched.

The Scottish Government, Road Safety Scotland and Police Scotland set out the new plans this week with a hard-hitting message that unlike video games, there are no second chances on real roads and the consequences of dangerous driving can be devastating.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said: “When you speed, you’re risking not only your own life but those of your passengers and everyone else on the road.

“A collision can happen no matter how good a driver you think you are.

“One moment of lost control can cost you everything - leaving you with a life-changing injury, the loss of someone close, or even a prison sentence.

“A single avoidable mistake can leave you with a lifetime of regret.”

According to figures from Police Scotland about one in five newly qualified drivers are involved in a collision within the first year behind the wheel, while nearly 1 in 3 drivers killed while speeding are aged 16-25.

Chief superintendent Scott McCarren, Police Scotland’s head of road policing, emphasised the particular dangers of speeding on rural routes.

He added: “Young drivers often assume country roads are quieter and safer but that’s far from the reality. Rural roads are unpredictable, with blind bends, hidden dips, farm vehicles, animals, poor lighting, and sudden hazards.

“Don’t assume you won’t be caught speeding because the road seems empty. Our officers are on patrol across the country, and you could face a fine, points, or you may have your license revoked. Don’t be the driver no one wants to get in the car with.”