Wrecked Discussion Guide by Road Safety Authority

BACKGROUND ABOUT WRECKED.ie

‘Wrecked.ie’ is a road safety educational resource targeted at 17-24 year olds.

17-24 year olds are a major risk group on Irish roads, being three times more likely to be killed in a collision than the rest of the population. This increases to five times more likely for 17 to 24 year old male drivers. Many die in single vehicle collisions where speeding was the principal factor. Bravado, peer pressure, inexperience, over estimation of their driving skills and a sense of invincibility often leads some young drivers, especially males to take risks while driving, without realising the dangers of these risks.

Based on this evidence the Road Safety Authority (RSA) coordinated the production of ‘Wrecked.ie’ with many groups working in the area of road safety such as the Gardaí, education sector, health sector, local authorities and the emergency services. The resource was produced in conjunction with groups working with 17-24 year olds such as Garda Diversion Programmes, Youthreach and Fás.

‘Wrecked.ie’ utilises real life stories to tell of the true consequences of the many life changing events that happen on today’s roads.

It provokes a heated and balanced discussion where the target group has a chance to interact about road safety in an open forum. The ‘Wrecked.ie’ DVD holds 19 testimonials recorded by people who recount their experiences of reckless driving. A synopsis of each testimonial is listed on the ‘Contents’ page of this booklet.

The accompanying discussion guide is a step by step guideline on how to approach a unique discussion for each story. It starts by ‘placing the blame’ with each of the testimonies, outlining the immediate consequences of that particular incident and further exploring the longer term consequences for the both the speaker and the knock on effect to friends, family, emergency services and the general public.

The RSA will provide training on how to deliver this course. You must participate in this training if you wish to deliver this course. This resource cannot be circulated to anyone who has not participated in this training.

Eimear was distracted and collided with a drunk pedestrian.

Conor suffered a spinal injury when he walked in front of a car on a night out.

John was sent to prison after the stolen car he was driving collided with a young girl.

Noel’s mother caught him driving under the influence of marijuana when he crashed into her car.

Sean’s best friend was killed during an illegal car race that Sean was involved in.

Mary collided with a motorcyclist when rushing to Youthreach.

Sinead killed her younger brother and his friend when she crashed her car whilst driving with too many passengers.

Declan drove regularly without insurance and was caught when he drove his car into the back of another vehicle.

Brian is responsible for caring for his sister after she was severely injured in a car crash.

Kathleen is sent to prison after killing a pedestrian whilst driving under the influence of alcohol.

Oisin crashed his car whilst driving at high speed. His best friend was paralysed in the incident.

Sarah was severely injured when she was a passenger involved in a high speed crash.

Paul and his friends bought a company car. Paul drove the car but was involved in a collision as the brakes of the car were defective. Paul’s friend was killed as a result.

EMERGENCY SERVICES

A Garda, Ambulance Paramedic and Fire Fighter describe their role at a two car collision. All occupants of the vehicles were killed as a result of the crash.

Fionnuala hit a cyclist whilst driving her car soon after she had passed her driving test.

Nick had his licence suspended after he hit a pedestrian when driving whilst on his mobile phone.

Darragh fell asleep behind the wheel. His car crashed head on into a truck. He sustained a brain injury as a result of the crash.

EIMEAR FAY

AGE 19

SEX FEMALE

LENGTH 3:21

Eimear collides with a drunken pedestrian while driving home from work on a Saturday night.

PLACING THE BLAME DISCUSSIONS

EIMEAR

• Distracted from the road

PEDESTRIAN VICTIM

• Drunk

• Not paying attention to the road

PEDESTRIAN’S FRIENDS

• Could have looked after their friend

DOOR/BAR STAFF

• Should look after people when they leave the club

• Should stop serving people when they have had too much to drink

ASK THE QUESTION

“Who do you think Eimear blamed for what happened?”

CONSEQUENCES

EIMEAR

• Loss of confidence in driving ability

• Questioned by Gardaí

• Breathalysed by Gardaí

• Possible damage to car

• Guilt

PEDESTRIAN VICTIM

• Severe physical injury

• Loss of confidence

• Loss of independence and earnings

• Spent time in the National Rehabilitation Hospital

Why do you think Eimear drove home after work?

How do you get home after a night out, and why?

Do you think Eimear would have been tired?

What are the dangers of driving tired?

What are the potential hazards you might face driving during the daytime/night time? i.e school children, traffic build up, drunk people, dark clothing

To discuss the dangers of driving tired. Highlighting that Eimear’s possible tiredness could have caused her to have less attention on the road.

To establish that you should change your driving style/ speed and attention toward the road based on roadside environments. i.e drunk people, school children

Is it safe to be distracted when driving, and why?

What are potential distractions when driving?

What distractions are illegal?

i.e Mobile phone use

What distractions are legal?

i.e looking at advertising, chatting, radio

To establish that any distraction when driving can cause a collision. Even legal distractions should be minimized if possible.

Do you think Eimear was speeding, and why?

Would fast driving have had an effect on the situation?

What effect would speed have?

i.e 9 in 10 pedestrians will die if hit by a car travelling at 60km/h.

For further information about speed and speeding please see the RSA leaflet ‘The Faster the Speed the Bigger the Mess’ which can be found under the ‘leaflets and poster corner’ of the ‘road safety’ section of the RSA website www.rsa.ie

What signs were there that Eimear should have adjusted her driving?

i.e busy area, drunk people etc

What adjustments would you need to make if you were driving past a football stadium on match day?

To establish that Eimear was not illegally speeding but the severity of the collision could have been reduced if she was driving slower in a built-up area.

To discuss that there are adjustments in driving style needed other than simply driving slower.

If you hit someone with your car, what would you do?

What is the correct procedure?

Should you call the Gardaí/Ambulance? What documents should you keep in your car?

To establish that you must stop your vehicle and remain at the scene for a reasonable time. If you or another person are injured and there is no Garda at the scene, the collision must be reported to the nearest Garda station. If you are asked by a Garda, you must give your name and address, the address where the vehicle is kept, the name and address of the vehicle owner, the vehicle’s registration number and evidence of insurance, such as the name of your insurance company or a disc or motor insurance certificate. If there is no Garda at the scene, you must give this information to any person involved in the crash or, if requested, to an independent witness. If the collision damages only property and there is a Garda in the immediate vicinity you must report it to the Garda. If there is no Garda available you must provide this information to the owner of the person in charge of the property. If, for any reason, neither a Garda nor the owner is immediately available you must give all relevant information at a Garda station as soon as possible. For further information about what you should do in an accident or in an emergency please see the Rules of the Road website www.rotr.ie

What would the Gardaí procedure be in a situation like this?

Would she be breathalysed?

Would the Gardaí take witness statements? Would you trust a drunk person’s statement?

To highlight the fact that every driver at the scene of any collision the Gardaí attend, is questioned.

To establish that a full investigation is conducted to correctly place blame and that a person under the influence of drink or drugs can not be used as a valid witness.

How could the injured pedestrian have been safer?

How do you think he was planning to get home?

What is a designated driver?

Do you ever have a designated driver, when you’re on a night out?

Do you think the group were able to look after each other if they were all really drunk?

Do you look out for your friends when you go out?

If one of your friends disappears on a night out how do you respond?

Have you ever been separated from your friends on a night out and what happened?

To discuss the responsibilities everyone has to look out for their friends and how simple things like arranging a meeting point and taxi home can help prevent problems at the end of the night.

PLENARY

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

AGE 22

SEX MALE

LENGTH 4:36

CONOR BRADY PLACING THE BLAME DISCUSSIONS

?

CONOR

• Drunk

• Not paying attention

Conor suffered a spinal injury when he walked in front of a car on a night out. He remains in a wheelchair and is adjusting to his new life.

CONOR’S FRIENDS

• Not looking after Conor

CAR DRIVER

• Possibly not paying attention to the environment.

ASK THE QUESTION

“Who do you think Conor blamed for what happened?”

CONSEQUENCES

CONOR

• Paralysed from the waist down

• No longer able to meet girls like before

• Sees his friends much less

• Massive lifestyle change

• Confidence issues

CONOR’S MOTHER

• Has to provide 24hr care

DRIVER

• Guilt caused by paralysing Conor

• Possible loss of confidence in driving AIM OF DISCUSSION

AIM OF DISCUSSION

How do you think being in a wheelchair affects Conor’s life?

How would being in a wheelchair change your life?

How do you think your friends would react if you were in Conor’s position?

Would they look after you?

How would you feel if someone had to take you to the toilet?

To discuss the changes in lifestyle that have to be made for new wheelchair users.

Why do you think Conor walked out into the street?

Do you think he would have walked into the street if he was sober?

How do you react to a drunk person in the street?

At what stage do you help a drunk person in the street? What issues come with that?

To discuss that drunk people lack judgement and control, and may need assistance.

For further information on safety pedestrian behaviour please see www.rsa.ie

Why can’t Conor remember what happened?

Why was he knocked back from the bar/club?

Do you think he drank more than he would on an average night?

Why do you think Conor passed out?

To discuss the effects of alcohol on memory and mental conditions and how this could affect a lone pedestrian.

Do you think the group were able to look after each other if they were all really drunk?

Did the group plan their journey home?

Do you ever go out with a designated driver in the group?

Is it safer to go out in a big group?

Do you look out for your friends when you go out?

If one of your friends disappears on a night out how do you respond?

Have you ever been separated from your friends on a night out?

Do you make plans for the end of the night when you go out?

Do you ask your friends to be responsible for you when you’re drunk?

Who is responsible for you when you’re drunk?

To discuss the importance of looking out for your friends on a night out, especially at the end of the night. Talk about planning the journey home and meeting points.

PLENARY

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

AIM OF DISCUSSION

JOHN O’NEILL

AGE 19

SEX MALE

LENGTH 4:26

John was sent to prison after the stolen car he was driving collided with a young girl. The young girl died and John’s friends deserted him.

PLACING THE BLAME DISCUSSIONS

?

JOHN

• Driving illegally

• Driving recklessly

• Didn’t stay to help the girl

How do you think the Gardaí knew it was John?

Would the owner of the car have been blamed if John hadn’t been caught?

Do you think you can you get away with something like this if the car is stolen and you run away?

• Possibly encouraging John to drive irresponsibly

• Didn’t stay to help the girl

JOHN’S FRIENDS PEDESTRIAN VICTIM

• May not have been paying attention to the road

ASK THE QUESTION

“Who do you think John blamed for what happened?”

CONSEQUENCES

JOHN

• Prison

• Friends & family don’t speak to him anymore

• The emotional effect of treatment in prison

• Difficulties in finding employment

• Negative financial implications

PEDESTRIAN VICTIM

• Loss of life

VICTIM’S FAMILY

• Loss of a loved one

How can the Gardaí investigate a scene like this?

To clarify that in the event of a fatality, a Gardaí investigation is exhaustive. Taking finger prints, fluid samples, witness reports, and CCTV footage analysis.

Do you think John was a good driver?

Is it wrong to drive without insurance and a licence? Why? What are the dangers of driving longer distances? i.e motorway driving, unfamiliar roads

What could happen on a journey like this?

To discuss the importance of having a licence and insurance and the increased risk involved with driving longer distances.

To discuss the complexities of the road and how gaining a licence teaches you about these.

To discuss what car insurance covers and what a person is liable to pay if they do not have it.

Make sure you get lessons from an Approved Driving Instructor. For further information about Approved Driving Instructors please see the ‘learner drivers’ section of the RSA website www.rsa.ie

AIM OF DISCUSSION

Why did John not stop the car before hitting the girl?

Would the speed of the car have any effect on the stopping distance?

John mentions that the music in the car was loud. Would this have had an effect on John’s driving ability?

To discuss general driving distraction when inside a vehicle.

To discuss how stopping distance can be greatly affected by a slight speed increase.

9 in 10 pedestrians will die if hit by a car travelling at 60km/h.

To discuss the possibility of John not being familiar with the vehicle’s brakes.

If you hit someone with your car, what would you do?

Should you call the Gardaí / Ambulance?

Do you think the girl could have been saved if the boys stayed at the scene?

How do you think prison has changed John?

What are your perceptions of prison?

How do you think you would cope in prison?

Do you think John will go back to prison?

Do you think John will find it easy to get a job?

What emotional effects do you think John has to deal with?

Where do you see yourself in three years?

What could happen in three years?

Why was John’s experience of prison worse than average?

To discuss in detail the realities of prison and establish that it is not an easy ride.

Why do you think his friends and family weren’t there for him?

Do you think your friends and family would support you in the same situation?

Do you think their opinions of you would change?

Is killing a young person worse than killing an older person?

Explain your reasons

Would you be there for a family member in this situation?

To discuss how people might react to someone that has killed a child in this type of situation.

PLENARY

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

AGE 18

SEX MALE

LENGTH 2:51

NOEL O’REILLY PLACING THE BLAME DISCUSSIONS

NOEL

Noel’s mother caught him driving under the influence of marijuana, when he crashed into her car.

• Driving while under the influence of drugs

NOEL’S FRIEND

• Letting his friend drive the car

ASK THE QUESTION

“Who do you think Noel blamed for what happened?”

CONSEQUENCES

NOEL

• Loss of trust and respect from mother

• Had to get a job to pay for damage

• Shame at letting mother down

NOEL’S MOTHER

• Damage to car

• Change in relationship with Noel

AIM OF DISCUSSION

Did Noel know that he was stoned?

Do you think he smokes regularly?

What effects does smoking dope have on your driving?

Do you think he believed it would affect his driving?

How did his mother know that he was stoned?

Do you think he often drives whilst stoned?

To discuss the effects that marijuana has on reaction times and overall perception. To establish that marijuana impairs both regular and occasional users.

For further information about drugs please see www.drugs.ie

What are the differences between Noel and a drunk driver?

Are the consequences still the same?

Is it socially acceptable to drive on drugs? If so, why?

Have you ever been in a car driven by someone who had drugs in their system?

Is it illegal to drive while stoned?

AIM OF DISCUSSION

To discuss the social acceptability of drug driving compared to drink driving.

AIM OF DISCUSSION

What would have happened if the Gardaí had stopped Noel?

What is wrong with driving 30 km/h in a 50 km/h zone?

Is there such thing as driving too slow for the driving environment?

What problems could this bring?

Have you ever been in a car behind somebody driving much slower than the speed limit?

How did it make you feel?

Do you think the flow of traffic could be affected?

How can hills/bends have an effect?

i.e not expecting a car going slowly as you drive over the brow of a hill / driving around a bend, possibly causing a collision.

To talk about how slow moving vehicles can confuse and anger other drivers.

PLENARY

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

BRIAN SMITH

AGE 23

SEX MALE

LENGTH 3:30

Brian is responsible for caring for his sister 24/7 after she was severely injured in a car crash. She was driving whilst under the influence of ecstasy.

PLACING THE BLAME DISCUSSIONS

?

BRIAN’S SISTER

• Ecstasy

• Tiredness

SISTER’S FRIENDS

• Should have not allowed her to drive after taking drugs

ASK THE QUESTION

“Who do you think Brian blamed for what happened?”

CONSEQUENCES

BRIAN’S SISTER

• Horrendous physical injuries

• Mental distress

• Guilt caused by killing two friends

BRIAN

• Mental distress caused by sister’s suffering

• Caring for his sister dominates his life.

SISTER’S FRIENDS

• Loss of life

BRIAN’S FAMILY

• Mental distress caused by loved ones’ suffering.

SISTER’S FRIENDS’ FAMILIES

• Grief caused by the loss of the family members’ lives

AIM OF DISCUSSION

In what way has Brian’s sister’s life been affected?

Why is Brian’s sister not talking to the camera? Do you think she is able to talk to anyone?

Would you want to be seen if you suffered such severe injuries?

Do you think she has dealt with the fact she has killed two of her friends?

How do you think people would react to you, if you were so severely injured?

Would you want a family member to look after you, if you were so severely injured?

Would you give up your life to look after a brother/sister? Do you think she will ever fully recover?

To think about the effects of the incident on Brian’s sister, from her perspective.

To think about how you would react, being in Brian’s sister’s situation.

What are the legal implications of this incident?

How do the Gardaí place the blame in an incident like this?

What evidence did the Gardaí have?

Why does everyone blame Brian’s sister?

AIM OF DISCUSSION

To establish that any driver found to have drugs or alcohol in their system will face serious legal consequences and penalties.

AIM OF DISCUSSION

Is it safer to drive on drugs or alcohol?

What are the effects of the following drugs on your body and how might they effect your driving?

Cannabis

Heroin

Cocaine

Ecstacy

For further information about drug driving please see the drug driving factsheet on www.wrecked.ie

To educate the group about the different effects that drugs can have on a driver.

In what ways has Brian’s life been affected?

Would you devote your life to looking after a family member?

Do you think Brian’s personal life will have changed?

How would your life change if you had to care for someone 24 hours a day?

Do you think it would bring you closer to the family member?

Do you think Brian resents looking after his sister?

Do you think Brian will be able to look after his sister forever?

AIM OF DISCUSSION

What do you think could have caused the crash?

Could it have been a drunk pedestrian walking across the road?

Do you think an animal in the road could have caused the crash?

If she had seen something, do you think she would have been able to stop in time?

There is no mention of her speeding but do you think her reactions would have been affected by the drugs in her system?

To discuss the possibilities of what caused the crash and to further discuss that no matter what caused the crash, the drugs in her systems wouldn’t have helped her hazard perception.

AIM OF DISCUSSION

To think about the effects of the incident on Brian’s life.

To think about how you would react, being in Brian’s situation.

Would you get into a car driven by someone who had drugs in their system?

Have you ever been in a car driven by someone who had drugs in their system?

Why do you think Brian’s sister decided to drive? What other transport options did the girls have?

Should the friends have told her not to drive?

Do you think she had driven on drugs before?

AIM OF DISCUSSION

To discuss alternative travel options for both Brian’s sister and her friends.

PLENARY

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

AGE 18

SEX MALE

LENGTH 3:24

SEAN RUANE PLACING THE BLAME DISCUSSIONS

?

SEAN

Sean’s best friend was killed during an illegal car race that Sean was involved in.

What is a boyracer?

• Illegally racing cars on a public road

• Driving too fast

• Left his friend

SEAN’S FRIEND

• Illegally racing cars on a public road

• Driving too fast

ASK THE QUESTION

“Who do you think Sean blamed for what happened?”

CONSEQUENCES

SEAN

• Guilt

• Blamed for incident

• Loss of best friend

SEAN’S FRIEND

• Dead

FRIEND’S FAMILY

• Loss of son/brother/grandson

AIM OF DISCUSSION

Is there such thing as a girl racer?

Is anyone you know a boy racer?

How do you view them? Cool / Uncool

Are young men more like to be involved in a crash?

The evidence shows that young men are more likely to be killed in a road traffic collision. Speed is the number one killer of people on Irish roads.

Is racing cars on a public road dangerous?

In what ways can racing be dangerous?

Are country roads more dangerous than motorways?

Do you think they knew they were doing anything wrong? Do you think they were in good control of their cars?

Would you get in the back of a car that was racing?

AIM OF DISCUSSION

To discuss the dangers of racing cars on public roads.

AIM OF DISCUSSION

Why do you think the woman called the Gardaí?

In what ways can racing be seen as anti social?

Would you feel safe if cars were racing outside your house?

What would you do in this situation?

To get the group to think about the effects of racing on the community.

PLENARY

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

MARY O’BRIEN

AGE 18

SEX FEMALE

LENGTH 2:50

Mary collided with a motorcyclist when rushing to Youthreach.

PLACING THE BLAME DISCUSSIONS

MARY

• Failed to check for traffic properly before moving off

MOTORCYCLIST

• Possibly driving too fast

• Could have anticipated more

ASK THE QUESTION

“Who do you think Mary blamed for what happened?”

CONSEQUENCES

MARY

• Loss of confidence

• Guilt

• Possible damage to vehicle

• Social consequences- Mary does not live close to public transport links. She has to get taxi’s to visit friends etc. She cannot afford to do this

MOTORCYCLIST

• Physical injuries

• Mental and emotional consequences

• Financial - Loss of earnings

• Potential cost of replacing bike

• Possible loss of confidence

OF DISCUSSION

Do you think that lack of confidence will affect either Mary or the motorcyclist in future?

In what way do you think it will affect her / him?

Why is confidence important when driving?

What are the negative results of a driver who is not confident?

To discuss the importance of confidence when driving.

The motorcyclist was badly injured and was likely to have needed skin grafts:

How would having visible skin grafts affect your life? Do you think you would get treated differently?

How could the motorcyclist have minimised potential injuries? i.e protective clothing, high-visibility clothing

To think about the life changing effects skin grafts would have.

To establish that it is essential to be visible to other road users when riding a bike.

Why is it important to plan for a journey?

Mary was rushed. What effect can speeding have?

What are the potential dangers of running an amber light as Mary did?

What are the potential dangers of overtaking a bus?

To warn drivers that planning is essential to a safe journey and that this can simply mean giving yourself enough time.

What is the correct procedure if you are involved in a collision?

Why is it important to get the other driver’s details?

Do you keep your insurance documents in the car?

Do you have a pen/paper in the car?

What happens if you give false details?

What should you do if you arrive at the scene of a collision?

What is the correct procedure?

Should you call the Gardai / Ambulance?

What documents should you keep in your car?

To establish that you should remain calm. Switch off the engine and apply the hand-brake. Use a reflective advance-warning triangle if available. Switch on hazard warning lights and parking lights. Make sure you are safe as you try to help others. Keep any injured people warm by placing coats or rugs around them. Organise bystanders from both directions. Be particularly careful at night so that people giving help are visible (by wearing reflective armbands or bright clothes or carrying lit torches). Call for help. Contact the emergency services on 999 pr 112.

PLENARY

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

SINEAD LEONARD

AGE 18

SEX FEMALE

LENGTH 3:34

Sinead killed her younger brother and his friend when she crashed her car whilst driving with too many passengers.

PLACING THE BLAME DISCUSSIONS

SINEAD

• Driving with too many passengers

• Not controlling her passengers

• Being distracted / taking eyes off road

• Not enforcing safety belt use

SINEAD’S PARENTS

• Leaving the keys to the car

?

ASK THE QUESTION

PASSENGERS

• Distracting Sinead

• Not wearing safety belts

TRUCK DRIVER

• Possibly driving too fast

“Who do you think Sinead blamed for what happened?”

CONSEQUENCES

SINEAD

• Guilt caused by killing brother and his friend

• Guilt caused by injuring other boys

• Blamed for the incident

• Severe damage to the car

• Emotional and physical trauma

TRUCK DRIVER

• Guilt

• Possible physical injuries

• Possible loss of confidence

SINEAD’S PARENTS

• Guilt

• Blame from other parents

SINEAD’S BROTHER

• Dead

AIM OF DISCUSSION AIM OF DISCUSSION

• Loss of life

• Neck injuries

BOY PASSENGERS PARENTS OF BOYS

• Grief

How many passengers are legally allowed in a car?

Have you ever been in a car with too many passengers? Whose responsibility is it to make sure that safety belts are worn?

What happens if you are stopped by the Gardaí and are found to be carrying passengers who are not wearing safety belts?

Do you think she knew that she was doing something wrong?

To establish that it is illegal to carry more passengers than there are safety belts in a vehicle.

What would have happened if Sinead had been stopped by the Gardaí?

Would she have been fined?

What would the fine have been?

She would have been driving without valid insurance as she had too many passengers. What would the implications of this be?

In Ireland passengers aged 18 and over and responsible for their own safety belt use. The driver is responsible for ensuring that all passengers under 18 are belted up. Drivers may receive up to 4 penalty points if your passengers in this age group are not belted or restrained.

AIM OF DISCUSSION

How could Sinead have dealt with the distractions?

How could the boys have been controlled in the back of the car?

How do you deal with distractions?

What is the difference between talking on a mobile whilst driving and talking to passengers whilst driving?

Is it dangerous to change the radio station/music track whilst driving?

Do you think loud music will have helped Sinead’s driving?

Do you think Sinead would have heard the truck if she hadn’t been distracted by noise?

To think about ways you could help control distractions within a car when you are driving.

If someone is sat in the footwell, how does this affect the car’s safety features?

How will the crumple zone be affected?

What would happen when the air bag is released?

What affect would the side impact bar have?

What are the differences between older cars and newer cars in terms of their safety features?

AIM OF DISCUSSION

To discuss how dangerous it can be for someone sitting in the foot well of a moving vehicle. To establish that even a light collision could be extremely dangerous.

How has Sinead’s life been affected?

How do you think Sinead’s parents feels towards her now?

How do you think Sinead’s friends would have reacted to what happened?

Do you think Sinead will find it easy to be in a car now?

To discuss the long-term mental distress Sinead will have to deal with.

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

DECLAN CULLEN

AGE 18

SEX MALE

LENGTH 2:43

Declan drove regularly without insurance and was caught when he drove his car into the back of another vehicle.

PLACING

THE BLAME

DECLAN

• Driving without insurance

• Driving too close to the car in front

OTHER VEHICLE

• Possibly breaking too suddenly

ASK THE QUESTION

“Who do you think Declan blamed for what happened?” ?

CONSEQUENCES

DECLAN

• Damage to car

• Loss of any no-claims bonus

• Points on licence

• Fine

• Increase in insurance premium

• Name in the paper

• Moved back home

• Legal consequences

OTHER VEHICLE

• Damage to car

• Whiplash

DISCUSSIONS

When is it legal to drive without insurance?

Why should you never drive without insurance?

What is the worst that could happen?

What are the different levels of insurance and what do they cover you for?

Would you drive a car without insurance?

Would you be a passenger in a car without insurance?

To establish that it is illegal to drive without insurance and explore the consequences of not being covered.

Why did Declan hit the other car?

What is a safe distance to drive behind another car?

Why was it Declan’s fault for hitting the car in front?

Do you know about the 2 second rule?

Do you think Declan had got his car serviced recently and that he had a valid NCT Certificate? Could this have had anything to do with the collision?

To discuss the importance of keeping a safe distance from the car in front. To discuss the 2 second rule and how it can be useful.

In traffic, the distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you is known as the safe headway. Keep a safe headway by ensuring you are at least two seconds behind the vehicle in front. This is known as the two-second rule. Increase double the distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you in wet weather. See the Rules of the Road for further information. Website www.rotr.ie

Getting your car serviced regularly in addition to insuring that you have a valid NCT certificate would have ensured that his brakes were working effectively.

If you hit someone with your car, what would you do?

What is the correct procedure?

Should you call the Gardaí / Ambulance?

AIM OF DISCUSSION To establish that you must stop your vehicle and remain at the scene for a reasonable time. If you or another person are injured and there is no Garda at the scene, the collision must be reported to the nearest Garda station. If you are asked by a Garda, you must give your name and address, the address where the vehicle is kept, the name and address of the vehicle owner, the vehicle’s registration number and evidence of insurance, such as the name of your insurance company or a disc or motor insurance certificate. If there is no Garda at the scene, you must give this information to any person involved in the crash or, if requested, to an independent witness. If the collision damages only property and there is a Garda in the immediate vicinity you must report it to the Garda. If there is no Garda available you must provide this information to the owner of the person in charge of the property. If, for any reason, neither a Garda nor the owner is immediately available you must give all relevant information at a Garda station as soon as possible. For further information about what you should do in an accident or in an emergency please see the Rules of the Road website www.rotr.ie

What should you do if you arrive at the scene of a collision?

What is the correct procedure?

Should you call the Gardai / Ambulance? What documents should you keep in your car?

AIM OF DISCUSSION To establish that you should remain calm. Switch off the engine and apply the hand-brake. Use a reflective advance-warning triangle if available. Switch on hazard warning lights and parking lights. Make sure you are safe as you try to help others. Keep any injured people warm by placing coats or rugs around them. Organise bystanders from both directions. Be particularly careful at night so that people giving help are visible (by wearing reflective armbands or bright clothes or carrying lit torches). Call for help. Contact the emergency services on 999 pr 112.

PLENARY

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

KATHLEEN HEFFERNAN

AGE 18

SEX FEMALE

LENGTH 4:13

Kathleen is sent to prison after killing a pedestrian whilst driving under the influence of alcohol.

PLACING THE BLAME DISCUSSIONS

KATHLEEN

• Driving whilst drunk

• Driving whilst tired

Is it okay to drive if you’re only a little tipsy?

How do you get home after a night out?

Do you think Kathleen would have been tired? What are the dangers of drink driving?

What are the dangers of driving tired?

• Possibly not paying attention to the road

• Might not have been wearing high visibility clothing

PEDESTRIAN VICTIM KATHLEEN’S FRIEND

• Could have looked after their friend

ASK THE QUESTION

“Who do you think Kathleen blamed for what happened?”

CONSEQUENCES

KATHLEEN

• Sent to prison

• Time spent dealing with incident

• Financial implications

• Guilt

• Social consequences- broke up with fiancé.

• Difficult to find work with a criminal record

PEDESTRIAN VICTIM

• Death

FAMILY OF PEDESTRIAN VICTIM

• Grief AIM OF DISCUSSION

What other options did Kathleen have to get home? Is it okay to drive the morning after a night of drinking? Does cold weather make you sober up quicker?

To establish that it is not okay to drive if you have any alcohol in your system.

For further information about alcohol and driving please see the alcohol and driving factsheet on www. wrecked.ie

To discuss the effects of tiredness on a person’s ability to drive well.

For further information about driver fatigue please see the driver tiredness factsheet on www.wrecked.ie

To discuss the importance of making travel arrangements.

AIM OF DISCUSSION

Do you think Kathleen was speeding?

Do you think she would have been speeding to get home? Would speed have an effect on the situation? What effect would speed have?

To establish that speed makes a massive impact as to whether someone lives or dies.

For further information about speed and speeding please check the speed and speeding factsheet on www.wrecked.ie

How do you think prison has changed Kathleen?

What are your perceptions of prison?

How do you think you would cope in prison?

Do you think Kathleen deserves to be in prison?

Do you think Kathleen will find it easy to get a job?

What emotional effects do you think Kathleen has to deal with?

Where do you see yourself in three years?

What could happen in three years?

Do you view female prisoners differently to male prisoners?

To discuss in detail the realities of prison and establish that it is not an easy ride.

AIM OF DISCUSSION

If you hit someone with your car, what would you do?

What is the correct procedure?

Should you call the Gardaí / Ambulance?

What documents should you keep in your car?

PLENARY

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

AIM OF DISCUSSION

OISIN COYLE

AGE 18

SEX MALE

LENGTH 3:19

Oisin crashed his car whilst driving at high speed. His best friend was paralysed in the incident.

PLACING THE BLAME DISCUSSIONS

OISIN

• Speeding

• Driving recklessly

• Made modifications to the car

OISIN’S FRIEND

• Possibly encouraging John to drive irresponsibly

ASK THE QUESTION

“Who do you think Oisin blamed for what happened?”

CONSEQUENCES

OISIN

• Best friend paralysed

• Guilt

• Damage to car

• Financial cost of a new car

• Increased insurance premium

OISIN’S FRIEND

• Paralysed

• Change in lifestyle

• May not be able to work

• May need care

• May have confidence issues

AIM OF DISCUSSION

Do you think the modifications Oisin made would have played a part in the incident?

Would his insurance have been affected?

Do you think his car would have been built for all the modifications?

How can modifications affect the safety of the car? Spoilers, body kits etc changing aerodynamics.

To clarify that making modifications to a car can affect not only the safety of the vehicle but also the insurance policy. All modifications must be declared to your insurance company.

Do you think the speed Oisin was driving at made a difference?

Do you think Oisin is a good driver?

Do you think he speeds often?

Would speed have an effect on the situation? What effect would speed have?

AIM OF DISCUSSION

To establish that speed makes a massive impact as to whether someone lives or dies.

For further information about speed and speeding please check the speed and speeding factsheet on www.wrecked.ie

AIM OF DISCUSSION

How do you think being paralysed affects his friend’s life?

How would being paralysed change your life?

How do you think your friends would react if you were in this position?

Would they look after you? What would you miss most if you were paralysed?

To discuss the changes in lifestyle that have to be made for people who are severely injured.

PLENARY

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

SARAH BARRY

AGE 18

SEX MALE

LENGTH 3:08

Sarah was severely injured when she was a passenger involved in a high speed crash.

PLACING THE BLAME DISCUSSIONS

SARAH

• Could have told Tom to stop

• Could have said no to getting in the car

TOM

• Speeding

• Driving recklessly

• Speeding to impress Sarah

ASK THE QUESTION

“Who do you think Sarah blamed for what happened?”

CONSEQUENCES

SARAH

• Severe scarring all over body

• Impact on social life

• Lifestyle change

• Confidence issues

TOM

• Loses credibility with friends following crash

Do you think Sarah was right to get in the car?

Would you have got into the car?

How much of an impact do you think peer pressure had?

Have you ever been in a situation where you felt pressured to do something?

How did it make you feel?

To discuss the effects of peer pressure and establish that there is always another option.

How could Sarah have made herself safer?

Do you think she told anyone that she was going in the car?

Sarah says that she couldn’t tell Tom to slow down. Why do you think this was?

Have you ever been in a speeding car and wanted the driver to slow down?

What did you do?

Do you think Sarah could have prepared for situation so that she knew what to say to get Tom to slow down?

To discuss ways in which we can minimise the risk of danger.

AIM OF DISCUSSION

How do you think that having severe scars affects Sarah’s life?

How would you cope with having scars all over your body? How do you think your friends would react? Would they still want to be around you? What would be the biggest impact on your life if you were in this situation?

To discuss the changes in lifestyle that have to be made for people who are severely injured.

Do you think the speed Tom was driving at made a difference?

Do you think Tom is a good driver? Why do you think he was speeding? Would speed have an effect on the situation? What effect would speed have?

AIM OF DISCUSSION

To establish that speed makes a massive impact as to the severity of a collision.

For further information about speed and speeding please check the speed and speeding factsheet on www.wrecked.ie

PLENARY

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

FIONNUALA NEWMAN

AGE 18

SEX FEMALE

LENGTH 2:31

Fionnuala hit a cyclist whilst driving her car soon after she had passed her driving test. She now faces a court hearing.

PLACING THE BLAME DISCUSSIONS

FIONNUALA

• Taking an unecessary risk on the road

Do you think Fionnuala was a good driver?

Do you think she would speed?

Why do you think she didn’t see the truck?

?

• Possibly taking up too much of the lane

TRUCK DRIVER

• Possibly speeding

• Could have anticipated traffic movement if they saw the cyclist.

ASK THE QUESTION

“Who do you think Fionnuala blamed for what happened?”

CONSEQUENCES

• Facing a court conviction

• Loss of confidence

• Guilt

• Financial implications

FIONNUALA CYCLIST CYCLIST

• Damage to bicycle

• Serious injury

AIM OF DISCUSSION

Do you think she was a confident driver?

Do you think being an inexperienced driver played any part in the collision?

Have you been in a car with a new driver? Did you feel safe?

To discuss the effects inexperience can have on decision making etc in a car journey.

AIM OF DISCUSSION

Have you ever been in a similar situation to the cyclist?

How can cyclists keep themselves safe on the road?

How can drivers look out for cyclists?

What impact can cars parked illegally on the road have on a cyclist’s journey?

To consider a cyclist’s journey from both the driver and cyclist’s perspective.

AIM OF DISCUSSION

How do you think Fionnuala is feeling about going to court?

How do you think you would feel?

How do you think your family would feel?

Do you think she deserves to lose her licence?

To discuss the emotional effects that going to court can have, not just on the person involved but also on their family.

If you hit someone with your car, what would you do?

What is the correct procedure?

Should you call the Gardaí / Ambulance?

What documents should you keep in your car?

AIM OF DISCUSSION

What should you do if you arrive at the scene of a collision?

What is the correct procedure?

Should you call the Gardai / Ambulance?

What documents should you keep in your car?

PLENARY

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

NICK CLARKE

AGE 18

SEX MALE

LENGTH 1:58

Nick had his licence suspended after he hit a pedestrian when driving whilst on his mobile phone.

PLACING THE BLAME DISCUSSIONS

?

NICK

• Driving whilst on his phone

• Not paying attention to the road

THE PEDESTRIAN

• Crossed without paying attention to the traffic

NICK’S GIRLFRIEND

• Should not have carried on the conversation, knowing that he was driving

ASK THE QUESTION

“Who do you think Nick blamed for what happened?”

CONSEQUENCES

NICK

• Lost his licence

• Had to pay a fine

• Had to sell his car to pay the fine

• Can no longer work in the role he was in before

THE PEDESTRIAN

• Severe injuries

• Possible mental/emotional effect

AIM OF DISCUSSION

Why was it dangerous for Nick to use his mobile whilst driving?

Is using a mobile different to talking to a passenger?

What other potential distractions are there that can affect a driver’s concentration?

i.e Radio / MP3 / Eating / Sat Nav / Adverts

Do you think his girlfriend was at fault?

Should she have carried on the conversation, knowing he was driving?

How can you avoid speaking on the phone whilst driving?

To discuss the various types of distraction that a driver faces when driving and that passengers can help to reduce danger by being aware of them also.

For further information about mobile phones and driving please check the mobile phones and driving factsheet on www.wrecked.ie

AIM OF DISCUSSION

Would Nick have seen the woman if he wasn’t on the phone?

Would he have been able to stop in time?

Would he have got the blame if he wasn’t on the phone?

Do you think he was to blame?

To establish that any driver found to be using a mobile phone whilst driving will automatically take the blame if involved in a collision.

How has Nick’s life been affected?

Do you think not having a car makes a difference to Nick finding work?

How would losing a car affect your life?

If you had to pay a fine of €2000 where would you get the money from?

AIM OF DISCUSSION To discuss the consequences on an individual after an incident like this and to put it into real terms the possibility of having to find money to pay a fine.

PLENARY

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

DARRAGH TIERNEY

AGE 24

SEX MALE

LENGTH 8:36

Darragh fell asleep behind the wheel. His car crashed head on into a truck. Darragh sustained a brain injury as a result of the crash.

PLACING

THE BLAME DISCUSSIONS

DARRAGH

• Drove while tired

• Tried to fight the signs of driver fatigue

• Fell asleep behind the wheel

DARRAGH’S FRIENDS AND FAMILY

• Were aware that Darragh was working early in the morning and could have encouraged him to get more sleep

ASK THE QUESTION

“Who do you think Darragh blamed for what happened?”

CONSEQUENCES

DARRAGH

• Sustained a brain injury

• Spent time in hospital

• Needed full time care in the aftermath of the collision and still requires care

• Change of relationship with family members

• Lost contact with many of his friends

• Broke up with his girlfriend

• Has difficulty remembering things

DARRAGH’S GIRLFRIEND

• Mental distress caused by loved ones suffering

• End of a relationship

DARRAGH’S FAMILY

• Mental distress caused by loved ones suffering

AIM OF DISCUSSION

Darragh fell asleep behind the wheel. Do you think it is acceptable to drive when you are tired?

What are the signs of driver fatigue?

What can you do to minimise the risk of driver fatigue before driving?

Do you think you can control driver fatigue while driving? How?

Do you think you would face legal consequences if you lost control of your vehicle due to tiredness or fatigue? Did you feel safe?

To establish that fighting sleep at the wheel is as dangerous as driving over the legal alcohol limit. If you are minutes from home don’t be tempted to keep driving when you are tired just because you are close to your destination. Many tiredness-related collisions occur within a few minutes of the driver’s destination because the driver has relaxed and the body takes this as a signal that it is okay to fall asleep. The following do not work and will only refresh you for only a short while:

• Getting out of your vehicle to stretch your legs

• Opening the window

• Turning on the radio

• No amount of will power will keep you awake.

To keep driving for another hour:

1. Find a safe place to park

2. Take 2 cups of strong coffee or a stimulation drink containing caffeine

3. Take a nap for no more than 15 minutes

If you lose control of your vehicle due to tiredness it is likely that you will end up in either a criminal court facing a prosecution and or a civil court facing a claim from an aggrieved party. For further information about driver fatigue please see the driver tiredness factsheet on www.wrecked.ie

Darragh mentioned that his job involved long hours and a lot of driving. Do you think certain groups are particularly at risk from driver tiredness?

Certain groups are more at risk of driver tiredness such as night workers, people driving home after a night shift, lorry drivers, company car drivers, men and skilled manual workers

To highlight that some groups are likely to be at risk from driver tiredness. For further information about driver tiredness please see the RSA leaflet ‘Driver Tiredness- The Facts’ which can be found under the ‘leaflets and poster corner’ of the ‘road safety’ section of the RSA website www.rsa.ie

How do you think having a brain injury affects Darragh’s life?

How do you think having a brain injury would change your life?

Darragh said he felt very angry and depressed after the collision. How would you feel if this happened to you?

Would you treat Darragh differently as a result of this brain injury if he was your friend?

Do you think Darragh’s collision has been hard for his family? How?

Darragh’s girlfriend broke up with him. Do you think a relationship would suffer in a situation like this?

How would you handle it if it was your girlfriend/ boyfriend?

Darragh is embarrassed by the involuntary spasms in his arm. How would you react if you saw this happening to Darragh at a football match?

How would you feel if you had involuntary spasms in your arm which could happen at any time?

Darragh says that he plans his days carefully but then can get tired really quickly and as a result does not finish what he had started out to do. How do you think this makes Darragh feel?

Do you think Darragh is coping well with his brain injury now?

AIM OF DISCUSSION To discuss the changes in lifestyle for people with an acquired brain injury. For further information about driver fatigue please see the driver tiredness factsheet on www.wrecked.ie

PLENARY

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

AIM OF DISCUSSION

PAUL BYRNE

AGE 17

SEX MALE

LENGTH 3:14

Paul and his friends bought a company car. Paul drove the car but was involved in a collision as the brakes of the car were defective. Paul’s friend was killed as a result.

PLACING THE BLAME DISCUSSIONS

• Speeding

• Driving recklessly - overtook car on a dangerous bend

• Didn’t check if the ‘Company Car’ was in good working order

PAUL’S FRIENDS

• Encouraged Paul to speed

• Didn’t check if the ‘Company Car’ was in good working order

SELLER OF ‘COMPANY CAR’

• Sold a car with defective brakes- did not check if the car was in good working order before selling it

• Did not have a valid NCT Certificate for the car

ASK THE QUESTION

“Who do you think Paul blamed for what happened?”

CONSEQUENCES

• Guilt over death of a friend

• Faces a court conviction

• Blamed for killing friend

PAUL PAUL PAUL’S FRIEND

• Dead

PAUL’S FRIEND’S FAMILY

• Grief

OTHER PASSENGERS

• Possible guilt that they did not ask Paul to slow down or stop driving recklessly

SELLER OF ‘COMPANY CAR’

• Possible guilt over selling a defective car

AIM OF DISCUSSION

What are the dangers of buying a company car?

Will you know the history of the car?

Is it wrong to drive a car that does not have a valid NCT Certificate? Why?

Do you think the car was insured?

When is it legal to drive without insurance?

What is the worst that can happen?

Do you think the car had a valid motor tax disk?

What can happen if you drive a car without valid motor tax?

Would you drive a car that did not have a valid NCT Certificate?

Would you be a passenger in a car that did not have a valid NCT Certificate?

Would you drive a car without insurance?

Would you be a passenger in a car with an uninsured driver?

To establish that it is illegal to drive without tax, insurance and a valid NCT Certificate and to explore the consequences of not having these on a ‘Company Car’. Vehicle testing makes sure your vehicle is safe to use on the road. This is especially important for older vehicles.

Do you think that the speed Paul was driving at made a difference?

Do you think Paul is a good driver?

Do you think he speeds often?

Would speed have an effect on the situation? What effect would it have?

AIM OF DISCUSSION

To establish that speed make a massive impact as to whether someone lives or dies. For further information about speed and speeding please check the speed and speeding factsheet on www.wrecked.ie

AIM OF DISCUSSION

Paul said that his friends were encouraging him to drive fast. Do you think they could have prevented the crash?

Have you ever been in a speeding car and wanted the car to slow down? What did you do?

Do you think Paul would have slowed down if his friends had told him to?

To discuss ways that we can minimise the risk of danger as a passenger.

Paul’s friend who was killed was not wearing a safety belt. Do you always wear a safety belt?

Would you wear a safety belt in the back seat of a car?

Would you wear a safety belt if you were going on a short journey?

To establish that safety belts save lives. ‘ For further information about safety belts please check the safety belts factsheet on www.wrecked.ie

Paul overtook on a dangerous bend. Can you think of any other situations when it would be dangerous to overtake?

i.e. You cannot overtake if you are at or near a pelican crossing, zebra crossing or at pedestrian signals, if a traffic sign or road marking prohibits it, of you are approaching a junction, if you are on the approach to a corner, bend, dip in the road, hump-back bridge, brow of a hill or on a narrow road or if you are in the left-hand lane of a dual carriageway or motorway when traffic is moving at normal speed.

How should you overtake safely?

i.e. You should make sure the road ahead is clear so that you have enough distance to allow you to overtake and get back to your own side of the road without forcing any other road user to move to avoid you. Never directly follow another overtaking vehicle. Give way to faster traffic already overtaking from behind. Before overtaking check that the way is clear, check in your mirror and blind spots to ensure another vehicle is not approaching from behind. Give your signal in good time, move out when it is safe to do so, accelerate and overtake with the minimum of delay. When you are well past, check the mirror, signal and gradually move in again making sure not to cut across the vehicle you have passed. Take extra care when overtaking a vehicle displaying a ‘LONG VEHICLE’ sign. This means that the vehicle is at least 13 metres long and you will need extra road length to pass it and safely return to the left-hand side of the road. You must not break the speed limit, even when overtaking.

How should you overtake safely?

To establish that you should only overtake if it is safe for you and other traffic.

For further information about overtaking please see the Rules of the road website www.rotr.ie

AIM OF DISCUSSION

How has Paul’s life been affected?

How do Paul’s friends treat him now?

Paul lives in a small community. Do you think people will blame him for what happened?

To discuss the long-term distress that Paul will have to deal with.

PLENARY

Put yourself in the speakers shoes. Would it have been realistic to change any aspect of what happened to alter the outcome in a positive manner?

AIM OF DISCUSSION

EMERGENCY SERVICES

A Garda, Ambulance Paramedic and Fire Fighter describe their role at a two car collision. All occupants of the vehicles were killed as a result of the crash. They describe how this affects them on both a professional and a personal level.

DISCUSSIONS

If you came across this crash or any other crash and if the emergency services were not present what could you do to ensure your safety and the safety of the people involved in the collision before the emergency services arrive?

You should check for potential hazards at the scene: Are the engines still running?

Are the vehicles still in gear? Is other traffic a potential hazard?

You should deal with these hazards as safely as possible: Wear a reflective vest.

Park in a safe place if you are driving. Place a warning triangle at a safe distance to warn other road users.

Turn on the hazard warning lights in your own car if you are driving. If it is safe to do so turn on the hazard lights in the cars involved in the collision. If it is safe to do so turn off the ignition of the cars involved in the collision.

3 X TESTIMONIALS

TOTAL LENGTH 10:08

The three clips should be shown consecutively.

What is the telephone number you should use to contact the emergency services from your mobile phone? (1 1 2)

What are the advantages of dialling this number over 999?

The telephone number to contact the emergency services is 112. This is a European number and works on all mobiles without the need to access the phone via its pin number. You do not need call credit to contact this number

Apply the handbrake in both cars if it is safe to do so. Make sure you are safe as you try to hold others Make sure others are safe and keep any injured people warm by placing coats or rugs around them. Organise bystanders to warn oncoming traffic from both directions, it this has not already been done. Be particularly visible at night so that people giving help are visible (by wearing reflective armbands or bright clothes or carrying lit torches)

Call for help. Contact the emergency services on 999 or 112.

To discuss the hazards that are present at a crash scene and what you should to to ensure your own safety and the safety of the people involved in the collision.

What information should you give the emergency services when you contact them?

Name of the caller and the number they are ringing from Brief description of what has happened, e.g. car crashed into a wall

Exact location

Any landmarks

Number of casualties

Gender of casualties

Approximate age of casualties

Details of any hazards present

To establish the correct procedure for making a phone call to the emergency services.

AIM OF DISCUSSION

ADDITIONAL ROAD SAFETY INFORMATION

USEFUL WEBSITES

• www.wrecked.ie

• www.rsa.ie

• www.theorytest.ie

• www.rulesoftheroad.ie

• www.garda.ie

• www.nra.ie

• www.spinalinjuries.ie

• www.briireland.ie

• www.headway.ie

• www.samaritans.org

• www.aware.ie

• www.healthpromotion.ie

• www.drugs.ie

• www.drinkaware.ie

• www.ncts.ie/

• www.letsomeoneknow.ie

• www.spunout.ie

• www.anamcara.ie

FREE LEAFLETS AND BOOKLETS TO ACCOMPANY WRECKED

The RSA produced a suite of leaflets and booklets on road safety which can be distributed to course participants.

The discussion guide indicates when to use these resources.

All leaflets and booklets can be downloaded from the factsheets section of the website www.wrecked.ie.

Hard copies of these leaflets can be obtained free of charge by contacting 1890 50 60 80. Please give six week’s notice when ordering leaflets.

CONTACT INFORMATION

All of the testimonials have also been uploaded onto the project website www.wrecked.ie

If you have any questions about ‘Wrecked.ie’ please contact

Jenny McLoughlin, Road Safety Promotion Officer

Telephone: 096 25002

Email: jennymcloughlin@rsa.ie or Angela Teahan, Road Safety Promotion Officer

Telephone: 096 25050 Email: angelateahan@rsa.ie