A local councillor has called for action over high kerbs on a Co Down road after he had to save a young woman from her car after a crash.
Slieve Croob councillor Alan Lewis credits having to change a song while out on a run for putting him in the right place at the right time.
After witnessing the crash in front of him on the Dundrum Road on Tuesday, Cllr Lewis told Belfast Live he was able to help the girl to safety after using part of the broken fence to break the back window.
He said: "I usually go for a run over lunch, in between constituent visits and work commitments. I had stopped to change songs, then ran on, the car hit the kerb, spun on to the pathway hit the fence and back on to the road.
"I ran toward the car and tried the doors, the young woman was trapped, smoke was billowing from the engine with a distinct smell of fuel, the driver was screaming for help.
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"I used part of the broken fence to break the back window and get her out, thankfully she was OK, albeit a bit shaken. Someone was definitely looking over all concerned as this incident could have been a lot worse.
"I’m glad that the young woman was able to walk away. I’m also lucky that I didn’t like the song I’d be listening to and stopped to change it.
"I will certainly be saying my prayers tonight, damaged cars and broken fences can be mended, no harm done, I just thank the lord she walked away unharmed."
Cllr Lewis explained that he has already been concerned about the high kerbs on the road and that the incident has only highlighted the issues at hand.
He said: "I along with residents have previously raised concern about the high kerbs which have been installed along the cycle route, I don’t believe they are fit for purpose. I can testify to the fact that the vehicle wasn’t travelling at any great speed, she must have connected with the kerb and lost control.
"No sooner had the car collided, a local resident arrived on the scene remarking, 'You were right about the kerbs then' - there needs to be an urgent review of safety at this location.
"This incident could have been a lot worse, had there been a family with small children, or somebody unable to jump out of the way, the results are unthinkable."
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