The consequences of road crashes were put on prominent display at the Sutton Forest service centre rest-stop on the Hume Highway, south of Sydney today with two crashed vehicles starkly conveying the difference between life and death.
Following a terrible start to the new year with 15 lives lost on New South Wales roads so far, the NSW Police and ANCAP joined forces to encourage motorists to consider the safety of the vehicles they drive.
"Driver behaviour and enforcement are key to saving lives on our roads, but one key element that is often overlooked is the safety of the vehicle you're in," said Assistant Commissioner Michael Corboy.
"During this busy summer period, we're asking motorists to consider the safety of their vehicle as it is a vital element in combating loss of life and serious injuries on NSW roads."
"For families of novice drivers, I know the temptation is there to put them in the oldest family car. I would call on parents to resist this as we see the results on the road every day when older vehicles are involved in crashes."
"As the operator of a fleet of more than 500 patrol cars, I would challenge other employers to review their fleet and take action."
"Road safety is a shared responsibility and we want to ensure you arrive home safely, every day," Mr Corboy added.
ANCAP vehicle safety experts and their crashed cars were on hand at the rest-stop to field questions from the community.
"The cars on display show the stark reality of how two different vehicles fare in the same crash," said ANCAP Chief Executive, James Goodwin.
"We too often hear 'it won't happen to me', but it can and it does. It might not be your fault, but if you're in the safest vehicle you can be, you're giving yourself and your family the best chance at either avoiding or minimising the consequences of a crash."
"Safer vehicle choices play an important role," Mr Goodwin said.
Motorists were urged to check the ANCAP safety rating of their vehicles which can be done free via www.ancap.com.au.
This community display is part of a national initiative to promote safer vehicle choices in partnership with the NSW Police, NSW Government and the NRMA.