AS CHRISTMAS approaches, West Yorkshire Police has released a video featuring the mother of a man who was killed when his car was hit by a drink and drug driver, to remind people of the risks that driving under the influence involves.
Carole Whittingham's son Steven died on 30 January, 1992, after a stolen vehicle being driven in excess of 80 miles per hour in a 30 mile per hour zone collided with his car. The driver had been drinking and taking drugs before getting behind the wheel.
Since Steven's death, Carole has set up the charity SCARD (Support and Care After Road Death and Injury). SCARD offer year-round support to families and friends of those lost in road related accidents.
As part of West Yorkshire Police's continued awareness campaign over the festive period, it has released a video where Carole encourages people to be safe this Christmas. She says, in the video, "Steven's death impacts, even today, in so many ways.
"Christmas is another day, as far as I'm concerned, because at that table there's somebody who should be there, that is missing. My heart's crying all the time.
"It's fine to go out and enjoy yourself, but please make sure you know how you're going to get home. Book a taxi, have a designated driver. Enjoy yourself, but don't get into a vehicle and attempt to drive, even with one drink, because you will be affected."
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