Family of Cornish dad who died after hit-and-run launch new petition for 'Ryan's Law'
It's for Ryan's Law - and is calling to widen the legal definition of causing death by dangerous driving
Last updated 9th Mar 2021
The family of a young dad from Cornwall who died after a hit-and-run have launched a fresh petition for a new law in his name.
Ryan Saltern lost his life after the incident at St Teath in 2019.
The driver pleaded guilty to failing to stop and failing to report the accident and was given a four-month suspended sentence.
Since Ryan's death, his family have campaigned tirelessly for hit-and-run drivers to face tougher sentences.
In December 2020, their first petition received more than 100,000 which meant the matter would be debated in Parliament.
Although the driver was not convicted of causing death by dangerous driving, Ryan's Law wants to widen the legal definition of that.
The new petition also pushing for minimum 10-year sentences and has already received more than 22,000 signatures.
Speaking last year, Ryan's dad Mark, from Delabole, told us it has been especially tough for his son's wife and little boy.
"He was fantastic. He was so loved by so many people. Generous, kind and so funny. He raised so much for charity. I just couldn't fault him at all.
"He married his lovely wife Cath and they have their little boy Harry, who we adore.
"It's really difficult at times. Obviously we see Harry, at times, knowing he'll never grow up with his dad.
"It's been difficult losing Ryan but we're doing this so other families don't have to go through the grief we're going through. It's horrendous".
Ryan Saltern's dad, Mark
What is the new petition calling for?
The petition is entitled Ryan's Law: Widen definition of 'causing death by dangerous driving'.
It states: "The offence of causing 'death by dangerous driving' should be widened to include: failure to stop, call 999 and render aid on scene until further help arrives".
It goes on to say: "Failure to stop/careless driving offers lighter custodial sentences and focuses on fines/suspensions.
"Drivers should STOP, ring 999 and render AID until help arrives.
"If they do not they should face charges for death by dangerous driving.
"The law should require this and aim to reduce the number of hit and runs and roadside deaths.
"With this definition, a minimum 10 years-max life sentence, citizens would be better protected".
Ryan's Law Petition
The petition can be found here.
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