MARLTESHAM: Police today urged motorists to follow correct safety procedures when they break down on busy roads - after one driver had a lucky escape on the A12.

MARLTESHAM: Police today urged motorists to follow correct safety procedures when they break down on busy roads - after one driver had a lucky escape on the A12.

Emergency services were called to the Nacton-bound carriageway near the BT roundabout at Martlesham just before 9.35am yesterday following a two vehicle crash.

It is believed a black Fiat Punto had broken down at the side of the road when it was in collision with a white panel van.

The 19-year-old driver of the Punto was taken to Ipswich Hospital to be treated for minor back and neck injuries.

Pc Paul Fletcher, of Suffolk Constabulary's road policing unit, said the young man had a lucky escape after he decided to remain inside his vehicle.

“If you have broken down on one of these roads then please - if it is safe and practical to do so - get yourself and your passengers out of the car,” he said.

“Walk back up the carriageway - about 50m away from the car and sit on the verge. It is much better to be cold and wet than in hospital. Don't stand in front of your vehicle because if it's hit from behind then it will go forward. Stand to the rear because if it does then get hit it will not cause injury to yourself or others.

“Fortunately the driver involved was wearing a seat belt, if he wasn't he could have had more serious head injuries.”

Pc Fletcher also used the opportunity to remind motorists to check the road worthiness of their vehicles - especially as the weather was starting to get colder.

“You never know when you are going to break down but there are certain measures you can take when it does happen,” he said. “Make sure that your hazard lights are on and that you call 999 immediately. That way we can come and assist you and help get the vehicle recovered safely.”

A spokesman for Suffolk Fire Service said three crews were called to the scene by paramedics as a 19-year-old man was trapped due to the collision.

Did you witness the accident? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.