Vicki Richardson nominated for Pride of Australia medal for work encouraging young drivers to put down their mobile phones

IT has been 18 months since Brooke Richardson died texting while driving — a lifetime for mum Vicki who has spent every day campaigning for young drivers to put down their phones.

IT was a fleeting message that cost a life: “Are you still going to make it today?’’

Those were the last words 19-year-old Brooke Richardson texted before she crashed into a tree, dying instantly.

It has been 18 months since the bubbly hairdresser’s life was cut short — a lifetime for her mum Vicki who has spent every day campaigning for young drivers to put down their phones while driving.

It was 10am on December 4 when Ms Richardson received the call every parent dreads.

“The next text sent to Brooke’s phone was from me, I was in distress and I was ­asking Brooke to contact me,’’ Vicki said.

“The next text to Brooke’s phone was again from me, telling her that I loved her. She didn’t answer.”

Now the founder of the Brooke Richardson Don’t-txt-n-Drive Foundation, Ms ­Richardson begs drivers not to take the risk — it could be the last decision you make.

Ms Richardson and her family started the foundation, raising money and awareness to spread the lifesaving ­message — one she feels is as important as stopping ­speeding or drink driving.

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“Mobile phones can create such a distraction — it has been described as similar to driving blind,” Vicki said.

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“I wish no other family has to experience the low our ­family experienced that day.”

Ms Richardson shares her message with thousands of teenagers, speaking at schools, and working with councils, police and community groups.

Her tireless work has seen her nominated for The Daily Telegraph’s Pride of Australia Inspiration Medal, an honour for which she said Brooke would be proud.

“I know Brooke would want me to make sure this message gets out to the public, so other families don’t have to go through the same horrific experience we have had to ­endure,” the 45-year-old said.

The foundation has 17,000 bumper stickers on the road, with bracelets and car air fresheners also for sale, available online, with a goal to fund billboards on major highways.

“Either turn your phones off or put them in a place where you will not be tempted to touch them,’’ she said.

“Are you prepared to never see your parents or any other member of your family again?”