F1 Legend Encourages Motorists To Drive Carefully On Country Roads In National Campaign

Expert serious injury lawyers have welcomed a campaign endorsed by ex-Grand Prix driver David Coulthard which aims to reduce the number of fatal crashes on country roads in Scotland.

The former Formula 1 driver, from Twynholm in Dumfries and Galloway, is fronting  a national campaign urging drivers to slow down on dangerous roads as part of a campaign by the Scottish government.

Coulthard, who is currently an F1 commentator after retiring from the sport in October, demonstrates to motorists that even the best drivers adjust their speed on country roads, particularly during bad weather conditions.

Specialist serious injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell’s Glasgow office have welcomed the campaign which will run throughout March on TV, radio, online and in cinemas to help to  reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured in road smashes.

Elaine Russell, a partner at Irwin Mitchell’s Glasgow office, said: “Winding country roads, particularly when affected by adverse weather conditions, can be incredibly dangerous for motorists who need to take extra care to prevent serious collisions.

“At Irwin Mitchell we see too often the devastating consequences collisions can have, not just on the victims themselves, but also entire families. We have helped thousands of people access the vital rehabilitation they may need to rebuild their lives following an accident.

“But one death or serious injury is one too many and that’s why we support the government’s new road safety campaign, run in conjunction with David Coulthard, who is a fantastic ambassador to help get this message across to people.

“We hope the advert raises further awareness about the impact careless driving can have on people’s lives and shows that drivers have other people’s lives in their hands when they are behind the wheel.”

UK figures released last year show that road casualties are at a record low. A total of 12,763 injuries and deaths were recorded during 2011, 575 fewer than in the previous year.

The number of deaths were down 22 to 186 and injury numbers were down 553 to 12,577.
Scottish Transport Minister Keith Brown says he hopes the Formula 1 legend can help motorists change their dangerous motoring habits.