Sharlotte’s Law included in the Government’s Road Safety Strategy

Sharlotte’s Law, which seeks to close a legal loophole on blood testing after fatal driving offences, has been included in the Government’s Road Safety Strategy.

The proposed law aims to remove the need for a suspect’s consent to test blood samples in cases involving deaths caused by motor vehicles.

Sharlotte’s Law is named after six-year-old Sharlotte-Sky Naglis, who was killed by a speeding driver under the influence of drink and drugs in Norton Green, Stoke-on-Trent, in June 2021.

The driver responsible spent 11 weeks in a coma, preventing police from testing his blood samples without his explicit consent. The legal impasse resulted in months-long delays for Sharlotte’s family during a critical investigation.

The inclusion of Sharlotte’s Law in the Road Safety Strategy marks significant progress in the campaign led by Sharlotte’s mother, Claire Reynolds, with support from Stoke-on-Trent North MP David Williams. The strategy is now open for public consultation, offering communities a chance to help shape the final version of the proposed legislation.

Public urged to support Sharlotte's Law

David Williams MP has urged communities, especially in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, to participate in the consultation.

“Getting Sharlotte’s Law into the Government’s Road Safety Strategy is a powerful moment for everyone who has worked so hard to get us to this point, especially Claire and her family,” Williams said.

“This shows our campaigning has been heard and that the case for change is being taken seriously. Now is the moment for the wider community to make its voice heard. The consultation gives people the opportunity to help ensure this change is carried through, so families are better protected in the future.”

A legacy of change

Speaking about the campaign, Sharlotte’s mother Claire said: “I am overwhelmed with the support and backing this has got from the government, it’s amazing to have people believe in Sharlotte’s Law and how this law will change families’ lives. We still have a way to go, but this is a massive step to get us closer to making it happen.”

Sharlotte’s Law has already gained widespread support from road safety charities, campaign groups, local councils, police representatives, and thousands of individuals through petitions.

“It doesn't get any easier, but this keeps me going, knowing that we’re fighting for something that could make such a big difference for families like ours.”

Claire is urging ministers to meet with supporters and move the proposed law forward. Reflecting on the progress, she added, “I'm proud that Sharlotte's legacy could change so many lives, help investigations going forward, and also help families find the truth in what happened in losing a loved one. This gives me the strength to continue, knowing I’m doing this for Sharlotte and the changes it could have on other people’s lives.”

Government signals support for legal change

Last year, then Leader of the Commons, Lucy Powell, acknowledged the campaign and hinted at possible future changes to motoring offences, including cases similar to Sharlotte’s.

Sharlotte’s Law campaigns to amend Section 7A of the Road Traffic Act 1988, ensuring that police can test blood samples without consent after fatal road collisions.

Owen, who killed Sharlotte in 2021, was later found to be twice over the drink-drive limit, under the influence of Class A drugs, and using his phone while driving. He was sentenced to six years and four months but served just two-and-a-half years in prison.

The ongoing consultation represents an opportunity for families, professionals, and the wider public to share their views on Sharlotte’s Law and ensure the proposed changes reflect the needs of affected communities.

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