Drivers are being warned not to do one thing if they break down on the motorway. Staffordshire Police have issued an alert to motorists who find themselves stranded on the M6 in Staffordshire.
It comes after a car and van were left a mangled wreck on the southbound side of the M6 near Stafford last night (January 8). Drivers are now being warned to make sure they get out of their cars if the event of a break down.
Staffordshire’s newly-formed road crime team, who were sent to the scene between junctions 13 and 12, shared a shocking image of the aftermath of the collision to highlight the danger. They said: “This highlights the importance of exiting your vehicle if you breakdown.
“Thankfully the occupants of this vehicle did just that before the van drove into it, avoiding any injury. Hazards, exit vehicle, call for help.”
Sergeant Chris Sweetmore, from the road crime teams 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. 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.”
Staffordshire Police offered this advice:
- 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.
Get daily headlines and breaking news emailed to you – it’s FREE