Deaths are caused by drivers whose physical or mental health just isn’t up to the demands of such a safety-critical job. They have poor eyesight, are feeling stressed, or are physically ill. We would be appalled if the pilot of a plane taking us on holiday was medically unfit. Yet some drivers drive in this condition, risking the lives of others as well as themselves. Research by Brake, Specsavers and Green Flag has found:

• One in twenty drivers surveyed had eyesight below minimum legal standards;
• More than three-quarters often feel stressed, angry or excited when behind the wheel, but 97% agree it is important to stay calm;
• More than four out of five drivers think about something other than driving when behind the wheel.

Advice:

• Your eyesight can deteriorate without you knowing it. Get your eyes tested at least every year or sooner if you detect a possible problem. You should be able to read a number plate from 20 metres and specific eyesight problems can also affect your ability to see at night, or out of the corners of your eyes.
• If you wear spectacles or lenses, never drive without them. If you only wear specs for driving, keep a spare pair in your vehicle just in case.
• Stress is a killer behind the wheel. If you are feeling stressed before setting off, don’t drive. When driving, presume that other road users will make mistakes and don’t let it annoy you or get you worked up.
• If a medical condition is likely to affect your concentration, or you feel it is doing, don’t drive. Consult your doctor, but also listen to your body. Better to be safe than sorry.

In memory of Livia Galli-Atkinson, who was walking on a pavement near her home in Enfield on 12 January 1998 when a car mounted the pavement and drove along it without braking. It demolished a road sign and injured another pedestrian before hitting Livia, and dragging her to her death. The fact that Livia’s death occurred on a pedestrian right of way has made it even more difficult for Livia’s parents, George and Giulietta, and sister Bianca, to come to terms with her death.

In memory of Jayne and Jodie Scrivens, aged 12, who were killed by a car while on their new bicycles on 11 September 1998. They were cycling home in single file along an unlit country lane near Featherstone in Staffordshire just as dusk was falling. The driver claimed not to have seen them and failed to stop. Jodie was killed at the scene and Jayne died later from her injuries. The girls left behind their parents Raymond and Jayne and brothers Jonathan and Kristian.