On the 16th of September 2024, our lives were forever changed. My 17-year-old autistic cousin was hit while crossing Halifax Road in Bradford. He had waited patiently for the green pedestrian light, doing what any of us would do to ensure his safety. Yet, in mere moments, his bright future was shattered by the reckless actions of a driver, Mohammed Khan, who sped through the road at over 100 mph. This tragic incident cost my cousin his leg and has left our family in tatters.

The driver, found guilty of dangerous driving, received a sentence of just 3 years and 4 months. It feels woefully inadequate for the irreversible damage inflicted not just on my cousin, but on our entire family. For someone like my cousin, who already faced daily challenges, this incident has added unimaginable burdens. He had only recently begun stepping out of his comfort zone, and this catastrophic event has erased his progress and peace of mind.

The current legal penalties fail to reflect the serious consequences of dangerous driving offenses. According to the Department for Transport, there were 26,070 people killed or seriously injured on UK roads in 2023 alone. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for reforms. Bradford is home to too many stories like my cousin’s, stories where lives are forever altered and justice feels distant.

We must call on the UK Government and local authorities to implement stricter sentences for dangerous driving offenses, particularly those that result in life-altering injuries or fatalities. Enhanced penalties could serve as a deterrent and convey the gravity of such actions. We would all like to see this sentence lengthened entirely for Mohammed Khan as a starting point and any others that have caused the same or greater damage to families.

Moreover, increased awareness and educational campaigns around safe driving could empower communities to change the dangerous driving culture. By signing this petition, you support not only justice for my cousin, but a safer future on the roads for all residents of Bradford and beyond. Join me in demanding change that reflects the value of every life impacted by reckless driving.

Please sign this petition to support longer sentences for dangerous driving. Let's ensure that the punishment fits the crime and work towards safer roads for everyone.