The emergency services highlighted the dangers of speeding with a simulated car crash in Sutton High Street.

Hundreds of shoppers lined the street to watch the demonstration.

Crews from London Ambulance service, London Fire Brigade and the Metropolitan Police Traffic Unit ran the public through the aftermath of a road accident via a PA system.


Watch the dramatic 'rescue' video



The simulated accident, which involved a motorcyclist being knocked off their bike, and a driver being cut out of their car, was as educational as it was dramatic.

Roy Buchanan, principle road safety officer at Sutton Council and a motorcyclist of 46 years, said scooter riders are especially dangerous.

He said: “Teenage scooter riders are a real problem. Just after they pass their CBT motorbike test, they are over confident and they take risks.

"That is why in April we are launching a campaign with Bikewize to give teenagers extra training after they have passed their CBT.”

Gary Saunders, from the Metropolitan Police traffic unit said people who ride irresponsibly do not realise the consequences.

He said: “There can be up to 30 people involved in helping victims after a crash.

"There can be four-hour tailbacks on the roads, just because of someone not sticking to the speed limits.

"Most crashes we see are avoidable. The CBT is so achievable for a young mind, we need people to ride more responsibly.”

Vince Thomas, watch manager at Sutton Fire Brigade said the first hour after the collision is imperative: “It's called the golden hour.

"From the moment of impact, the victim should be in casualty within the hour.

"Getting them there in that time greatly increases their chances of survival.

"To cut somebody out a car like we did here is a very delicate process.

"We have to be quick with the cutters but also very careful.”

The simulation was in Sutton because figures show a worrying increase in those killed and severely injured on Sutton's road.

From January to December 2007 there were two fatal crashes and 70 killed or seriously injured.

Last year, from January to September alone, there had already been 55 killed or seriously injured with two fatalities.

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