(Image: SWNS)
The sister of a teenager killed in a devastating crash on her 18th birthday has launched a petition calling for the speed limit to be reduced on the road where the collision happened.
Amy Devanney is campaigning for change on Brooms Lane, near Consett, following the death of her sister, Abbie Devanney, in October 2023.
The petition, which Durham County Council said it will consider, calls for the current 60mph limit on the rural road to be reduced, with Amy arguing that the route's condition and tendency to flood make it unsuitable for higher speeds.
Amy, who was 15 when her sister died, said: “I am determined to make a change, to celebrate Abbie's life and to save innocent lives like hers.
“The current speed limit is 60mph, and my goal is to have it changed. The conditions of this road are poor, and are massively affected by the weather.
“It has a tendency to flood, and therefore does not have an appropriate speed limit. Hopefully this change will reduce the risk of more collisions.
Amy Devanney. (Image: Amy Devanney / SWNS)
“There have been multiple accidents on Brooms Lane over the years, and I believe also various lives lost, including my sister's.
“How many more lives have to be lost before we take action?”
Abbie was celebrating her 18th birthday on October 25, 2023, and was travelling with friends when Charlie Whittaker, who was 17 at the time, lost control at 69mph after hitting standing water left by a storm.
Abbie Devanney. (Image: Amy Devanney / SWNS)
Teesside Crown Court heard that the car aquaplaned before leaving the road and striking a tree and Abbie, who was sitting in the rear of the vehicle, died at the scene.
He was also banned from driving for seven years and eight months.
Amy has become a vocal campaigner against dangerous driving and recently took part in a Durham Constabulary documentary featuring body-worn camera footage from officers who attended the scene.
Abbie and Amy, when they were younger. (Image: Amy Devanney / SWNS)
Speaking previously, Amy said she hoped the footage would make motorists think twice about speeding.
"I can choose for it to ruin the rest of my life and sit with it, or choose to make something good out of it," she said.
"My life changed overnight and by spreading awareness it's my way of regaining control over my life.
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"I've witnessed the devastating pain it causes and if I can prevent anyone being in the same situation as well, it will help me."
Kieron Moralee, Durham County Council’s traffic management section manager, said: “We are aware of the circumstances that have led to this petition, and our thoughts are with Abbie’s family and friends.
“We will consider the petition and respond once it has been received, in line with our usual process.”