Road Safety Week is the UK’s biggest annual road safety campaign, created by roadside charity, Brake, to raise awareness of the importance of safe driving and vehicle maintenance. This year, Bill Plant Driving School is proud to partner with Brake throughout 2025 to help promote safer roads for everyone.
As one of the UK’s leading driving schools, we teach more than 60,000 learner drivers each year, giving us a significant role in shaping safer habits among new and young drivers.
The theme for Road Safety Week 2025 focuses on a key message that all road users should follow. A safe journey begins with a safe vehicle.
Why Vehicle Checks Are the Focus of Road Safety Week
Brake’s central theme this year highlights the importance of checking your vehicle before every journey. Even the most advanced driver assistance technologies cannot prevent danger if a vehicle is not properly maintained.
Simple issues such as worn tyres, faulty lights or disabled safety systems are among the most common contributing factors in avoidable collisions.
These checks take only a few minutes, yet they can prevent life-changing incidents.
They are especially important for young drivers and newly qualified drivers, who may overlook the importance of consistent vehicle maintenance.
Essential Vehicle Checks to Make Before Every Journey
To support Road Safety Week, we are encouraging all drivers to carry out basic pre-drive checks, including:
- Inspecting tyres for tread depth, pressure and damage
- Ensuring all lights and indicators are working
- Making sure brakes feel responsive
- Checking driver assistance features like AEB and lane assist are switched on
- Cleaning windscreens, mirrors and number plates
- Addressing dashboard warning lights immediately
Whether you are driving a learner car, a family vehicle or a work van, these simple steps can significantly reduce risk.
Sharron and Caitlin’s Story: A Powerful Reminder of Why Road Safety Matters
As part of our partnership with Brake, we spoke with road safety campaigner Sharron Huddleston, who shared the heart-breaking story of her daughter Caitlin.
Caitlin lost her life as a passenger in a young driver’s car, and Sharron has since dedicated herself to raising awareness about the risks faced by young and novice drivers.
In the video below, Sharron discusses the impact of the crash, the importance of safer driving, and why better awareness and vehicle safety checks are essential.
Her story is a reminder that road crashes affect far more than drivers. Families, friends and entire communities live with the consequences.
To support her work and learn more, visit Protect Young Drivers at www.protectyoungdrivers.com/getsupport
Our Commitment to Promoting Safe Driving
At Bill Plant Driving School, we believe learner drivers must understand both driving skills and vehicle safety. Our instructors will be reinforcing the importance of:
- Recognising and responding to warning lights
- Understanding basic car maintenance
- Carrying out pre drive checks every time they drive
- Treating vehicle safety features as essential, not optional
By combining practical driving lessons with education about vehicle safety, we aim to help create safer habits that last long after pupils pass their driving test.
How You Can Support Road Safety Week 2025
Anyone can take part in Road Safety Week by:
- Sharing Brake’s resources and safety guides
- Encouraging young drivers to check their vehicle regularly
- Talking openly about safe driving and passenger safety
- Supporting charities like Protect Young Drivers
Even small actions contribute to a safer road network.
A Safe Journey Starts With a Safe Vehicle
Road Safety Week is a vital reminder that safe driving relies on more than skill. It relies on the condition of the vehicle itself. By taking a few minutes to complete simple vehicle checks, drivers can reduce risks, protect passengers and help prevent tragic outcomes.
We are proud to support Brake throughout the year and to share stories like Sharron and Caitlin’s, which highlight why road safety must always remain a priority.