The mangled wreckage of a car smash which killed a man was displayed across Stockport last week to show how drink-driving and distractions can lead to fatal consequences.
The crash took the life of a 24-year-old Tameside man who was three times over the drinking limit, speeding and not wearing his seatbelt.
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service exhibited the wreck between May 6 and May 8 for National Road Safety Week.
Community safety volunteers and advisors were also on hand and spoke to hundreds of people about the dangers of using mobile devices while driving.
Safety advisor Oliver Harrison said: “We put on two successful events in the town centre and went to Aquinas College as part of National Road Safety Week, spoke to over 130 sixth form students ranging from 16 to 18 years old.
“Many of the young people were shocked at the graphic road traffic collision display and this provided some serious discussion among the students about driver behaviour.
“Several students commented they felt sick after seeing the mangled wreckage and a few came back to the display on more than one occasion with their friends so they could also take a look and listen to the road safety advice.”
Chair of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority, Councillor David Acton said: “It’s great to reach out to young people and teach them about the harsh realities of what can happen on the roads if you don’t fully pay attention to what you’re doing.
SHOCKING: Crowds gather around the wreckage in Stockport
“GMFRS’ Road Safety Strategy targets new and young drivers who are statistically more at risk of being involved in a road traffic collision in their first year of having passed their test.”
Road Safety Week focuses on pedestrian safety, raising awareness of the importance of looking after each other when using roads and the potential consequences of being distracted.
Greater Manchester Police ran a separate operation on May 8, targeting motorists who flout the law by driving through the town centre bus lane, endangering pedestrians.
This sparked plenty of discussion between several members of the public about near misses they themselves have had with inconsiderate motorists.
For more information on Road safety week, please visit www.roadsafetyweek.org.
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