MAYO COUNTY COUNCIL is using modern technology to show the county’s young people the devastation that can be caused by being irresponsible behind the wheel.

The council is making use of virtual reality headsets that play a graphic movie for participants, as part of a two-day awareness campaign,

The simulation, which incorporates 360 degree filming, features actors alongside real emergency staff. Users experience a full crash-scene extraction starting with the arrival of emergency services. They are talked through the process by a paramedic and can see the full scene.

Drivers can watch themselves receiving medical treatment, see other people with injuries around them and workers cutting people out of a crashed car.

Catherine McCloskey of South West Development company said one girl commented afterwards that it made her think about “stupid people are to mess around on the roads”.

The council’s campaign is aimed at highlighting the biggest dangers in driving; speeding, using a mobile phone, driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, fatigue and not wearing a seatbelt.

The awareness days take place tomorrow and Friday at Ballinrobe racecourse.

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