Government may remove consent for blood tests after fatal collisions

In the United Kingdom, a tragic incident occurred in 2021 when six-year-old Sharlotte-Sky Naglis lost her life due to a fatal collision caused by a drunk driver in Stoke. At the time of the accident, police were unable to conduct a blood test on the driver, John Owen, who lay in a coma, because current laws required the driver's consent. This situation has stirred significant unrest among campaigners and lawmakers who argue that laws must be updated to ensure justice in similar circumstances. Sharlotte was walking with her father when she was struck by Owen, who was also using his mobile phone while driving. He was sentenced to six years and four months, serving only two-and-a-half years for his actions, which further fuelled calls for legal reforms that could help prevent such injustices in the future. Campaigns led by Sharlotte's mother, Claire, have highlighted the shortcomings of section 7A of the Road Traffic Act 1988, which currently limits police actions when drivers are incapacitated after an accident. Claire's determination has been pivotal in raising awareness about the issue, underlining how the inability to test a driver's blood in a timely manner can obstruct investigations into fatal collisions. This has led to discussions in Parliament, where Commons Leader Lucy Powell has indicated that legislative changes may be in the works. The goal of these potential reforms is to allow police to conduct blood tests without needing the incapacitated driver's consent in cases of fatal accidents, thereby bridging the gap in the law that hinders the pursuit of justice. The debate has gained momentum, with MPs like David Williams calling for urgent discussions on the matter. If the proposed changes are implemented, they could significantly alter the legal landscape, ensuring that dangerous drivers are more accountable and preventing similar tragedies from occurring in the future.