Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: FRIDAY, April 6, 1990 TAG: 9004061083
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: B2 EDITION: EVENING
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: HARTWOOD LENGTH: Medium
Air bags are credited with saving the lives of Priscilla Van Steelant and Ronald E. Woody II in the March 12 collision. It is believed to be the first accident of its kind in the nation.
"I'm hoping in the big scheme something good will come out of this," said Victor Van Steelant as he watched his wife being videotaped. "We're very thankful to have Priscilla with us and welcome the opportunity to promote air bags."
State Trooper Gary Dawson, Van Steelant and Woody were interviewed by the institute for a presentation to be used highlighting the value and efficiency of air bags.
The video was filmed near Fredericksburg just outside of the National Technical Systems, a facility located in Hartwood to test cars and other equipment for safety and other features. The Institute uses it often for its own testing.
A forklift placed the crumpled cars, which now belong to the Institute, on a platform. They were moved by trailer to the side of the road.
Van Steelant said she was very emotional at seeing the 1989 Chrysler Le Baron for the first time since the accident.
For Van Steelant, a firm believer in seat belts before the accident and now a fervent air bag advocate, the most important thing is to keep the focus on the safety issue.
"When it really hit home was when Trooper Dawson told me he expected to take me out on a body bag," Van Steelant said.
The 1989 Le Baron that was destroyed in the accident was the first car with air bags the Van Steelants bought.
"It was a nicety (that) lowered the insurance rate," she said.
by CNB