A woman from Knaresborough who suffered a life-changing accident will be visiting local primary schools as part of Road Safety Week. Thirteen years ago, Lauren Doherty was walking home after a night out in Harrogate when she crossed the road and was hit by a van. The accident left her paralysed and needing two carers at all times. But she's since been dedicating her life to visiting schools and other organisations to share her message around road safety. Lauren told Your Harrogate:
Road Safety Week, organised by Brake, is the UK's biggest road safety event and runs from 15th-21st November. The theme of Road Safety Week 2021 is Road Safety Heroes, celebrating the heroic work of road safety professionals, and explaining how we can all play a part in making journeys safer for everyone. https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=878994602976579"This week we’ve got two primary school visits. It’s a great opportunity to get out into the local schools and share my message on road safety and how to stay safe.
"We share my story right from the beginning - when I had my accident and how my life has been changed.
"I think that it’s a great opportunity to share my story and how people can stay safe and it’s such an important message to share with children."
Lauren's story
In 2008, Lauren was involved in a life-changing road traffic accident, which left her paralysed and needing round-the-clock care. Having experienced the devastation that a lack of concentration could cause, Lauren now helps others learn the consequences of road safety. Via her website roadsafetytalks.co.uk, Lauren speaks of her accident and the effect it has had on her life:"I don’t know what made me cross the road at the wrong time, but I crossed the road without looking and taking due care and attention. "I was hit by a van, was left completely paralysed and need everything doing for me. I have 2 carers with me at all times and have had to accept that this is my life now. "I hope to benefit others in demonstrating that just because you have had an accident and you are in a wheelchair, your life isn’t over."Lauren was recognised for her work around road safety earlier this year when she was awarded within the Queen's 2021 Birthday Honours List. Find out more about Road Safety Talks and read more about Lauren's story here. Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here.
Legendary Harrogate police officer to retire after 23 years
New roadworks set for Halfpenny Lane in Knaresborough
Harrogate Theatre to recruit Fundraising Manager
Return of Your Harrogate and Fat Badger Golf Day raises £10,000 for local charities
Amber's at Cedar Court launches new Thursday Club
Harrogate supercar financier wins prestigious national award
Harrogate BID appoints town centre support officer
Council spends another £300,000 on Station Gateway
Luxury womenswear brand opens shop in Harrogate
Harrogate pre-school rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted
Celebrity guests revealed for return of holiday show in Harrogate
Chris Aldred appointed Harrogate charter mayor
First hippo in 20 years born at Flamingo Land Resort
Residents question 'completion' of gas works on Halfpenny Lane
Harrogate hospital staff 'stressed and anxious' over workloads
Biannual open gardens event returns to Ripon
Record-breaking fundraising total for Harrogate motor show
Harrogate bar goes viral for bottomless Guinness brunch
TV stars reunite to fundraise in support of Harrogate businessman
Halfpenny Lane bridge to reopen this week
