Police release picture of crushed car they want every motorway driver to see

Police have released a shocking picture showing the extent of damage to a car after it was crashed into on the motorway. Staffordshire Police released the image following a crash on the hard shoulder of the M6 in Staffordshire on Wednesday, November 27. Police said the vehicle was broken down on the hard shoulder when another vehicle crashed into the back of it.

They said the picture was a perfect example of why motorists should not stay in their vehicles if they break down on the motorway. In such situations, drivers are advised to safely exit their vehicles from the left-hand side and wait behind the safety barrier. After releasing the image, a force spokesperson said: "This is a prime example why you do not sit within your vehicle if you break down on the motorway.

"Last night (November 27) @StaffsRCT attended a RTC on the M6 where there were no injuries. Should the occupants have been sitting within the vehicle, it would have been a very different story." Sergeant Chris Sweetmore, from the road crime team's serious collision investigation unit, said: "Failing to follow the right procedure in the event of a sudden breakdown significantly increases the chances of a collision happening, so understanding what to do is vital.

It's always best to be extra cautious, especially when you're driving on busy motorways and main roads, to pull over safely if something doesn't feel or sound right with your vehicle." Birmingham Live reports, he further advised on being proactive, stating: "Even if it's nothing, trusting your gut might be the difference between breaking down in a dangerous lane or being in a place of safety." For the latest Welsh news delivered to your inbox sign up to our newsletter[1][2] Staffordshire Police offered their advice to drivers, urging them to take precautionary action.

They said:

• If you're on a motorway or busy road and you break down in a live lane, you should put your hazards on immediately and call 999 as soon as possible
• Only if it's safe to do so, you should try to get out of the car using the passenger door and try to make your way behind the safety barrier.

  If you're on a normal road, move away from the vehicle as much as you can

• Don't attempt to put out a warning triangle or see to the damage yourself

References

1. ^ Birmingham Live (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
2. ^ For the latest Welsh news delivered to your inbox sign up to our newsletter (www.walesonline.co.uk)