A SEAT BELT simulator will allow people in Worcestershire to experience what it is like to be in a car crash, in a joint mission to slash road deaths.

The high-tech sled has been bought between Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, West Mercia Police, and Crime Commissioner John Campion.

The equipment demonstrates the impact of a road traffic collision at just 4mph, allowing the user to fully appreciate the importance of wearing a seat belt, even when travelling at low speed.

The kit will be used during the series of annual 'Dying 2 Drive' road safety events which intend to reduce death and serious injury amongst young road users.

Dying 2 Drive attracts secondary schools from all over the two counties and is run by fire, police, Herefordshire Council, the Safer Roads Partnership, West Midlands Ambulance Service and St John Ambulance.

The interactive sled will also be used at open days and other community safety related events.

Assistant chief fire officer John Hodges said: “Using your seat belt could mean the difference between life and death.

"The new seat belt stimulator sled allows people to experience just a fraction of the impact of a road traffic collision, which will hopefully encourage them to always wear a seat belt.”

Anna Higgins, communications manager at the Safer Roads Partnership, said: “Not wearing a seat belt can be a fatal decision, even on short, familiar journeys and at low speed. While the majority of people habitually belt up every time they get into a car, there are still some who either choose not to or simply forget."

Drivers and passengers who fail to wear seat belts in the front and back of vehicles are breaking the law and face an on-the-spot fine of £100.

If prosecuted, the maximum fine can be up to £500. Making sure children are restrained in correctly fitted car seats or booster seats is considered just as vital.

PCC John Campion said: “As part of my plan for a safer West Mercia, I promised to improve road safety, through practical approaches to education.

"The funding of the sled is just one example of how I am delivering on this promise, ensuring the public understand the dangers and drive in a way to keep themselves and others safe.

"I welcome the joined up approach between the police and the fire service, to engage with the public on the shared objective of keeping our roads safer, and will continue to make best use of opportunities like this.”