Dozens sign up to new Cambridgeshire police-led seatbelt scheme
The scheme aims to help vulnerable road users after a collision
Dozens of people have asked Cambridgeshire Police if they can take part in a scheme that aims to help vulnerable road users after a collision.
The force's Vision Zero team has launched a seatbelt cover this summer, which alerts emergency services and the public to a person who may struggle to communicate or get the help they need.
Police say so far, 73 people have applied for one of these covers.
“These simple covers can make the world of difference in an emergency, enabling officers and other blue light workers to meet the needs of drivers or passengers immediately, significantly reducing distress," Darryl Preston, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough's police and crime commissioner (PCC), said.
“The impact of small changes in the way the police exercise their responsibilities are invaluable for those living with invisible disabilities or illnesses, especially in a life-or-death situation, and we remain committed to learning lessons and taking action."
The cover - funded by the PCC - is attached to a vehicle's seatbelt, which contains a unique PIN number assigned to the driver or passenger when they join the force's Pegasus scheme.
This PIN number can be used by emergency workers to identify the person in the vehicle and how best to communicate with them.
The Pegasus scheme encourages people living with disabilities or illnesses that affect communication to pre-register their details with police so emergency services staff can provide the right support from the scene of a collision.
“This seatbelt scheme has been replicated in other areas of the UK and is designed to provide an additional safeguard to those involved in collisions so the best care can be provided, whatever the disability is," PC AJ Boddington, casualty reduction officer at Cambridgeshire Police, said.
"It is hoped that pairing it with the Pegasus scheme will raise awareness of those in the community who need assistance.”
In the last 12 months, workshops led by PC Boddington - which provides road safety advice to everyone who uses our roads - has reached more than 3,300 younger drivers, 800 older drivers and nearly 5,000 schoolchildren across the county.