Police release harrowing image of crash

The image, from an accident in the Lisburn area, was released by the police, as part of an appeal to drivers to take more care on the roads.

The driver involved in the crash was taken to hospital suffering from suspected broken ribs. The image is being used with permission from the driver of the vehicle to show just how lucky the driver is to being alive.

Police have said that in the past year seven people have been killed on the roads around Lisburn, six more than this time last year.

In the past two months between the beginning of October and November 16, police have issued 145 fixed penalty notices to drivers, which included 49 for excess speed and 56 for using a mobile phone.

Lisburn Commander, Chief Inspector John Wilson said: “A full investigation has been launched to determine the cause of this accident, but this picture shows that the driver of this vehicle was just inches away from a serious head injury.

“He is in hospital suffering from a number of other injuries but he gave us permission to use the picture so we could show just how shocking this was.”

“Across Northern Ireland to date this year, 73 people have been killed on our roads, 16 more than the total number of people killed in collisions during all of 2013,” said the Chief Inspector.

“We are getting tougher with drivers who flout the law.” Mr Wilson also issued some advice to motorists about driving.

“Do not speed, drive appropriately for the road conditions, do not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, wear your seat belt, do not use a mobile phone while driving. Do all of these simple things, and you can help keep yourself and other road users safe,” he said.

“Look carefully at this photograph. Understand the reality of this situation. Drive safely, and do all you can to avoid being in the same situation. This driver was incredibly lucky not to sustain more injuries. Be seen. Slow down. Don’t drive with drugs or alcohol in your system. Stay safe.”