A MOTHER-OF-FOUR died because she did not fasten her seatbelt correctly moments before a car crash, an inquest heard.

Kay Elizabeth Jones, 43, from Cefn Fforest, suffered severe chest injuries after being thrown forward into the back of the driver's seat during the accident in Pontllanfraith on August 20 last year.

Mrs Jones was being driven home by her step father, along with her young son Joseph, sister Maureen Barr and a niece.

Driver William Thorne, 60, told police he lost control of the Renault Laguna after clipping the curb near the Bird in Hand pub on Bryn Road, near the junction of Manor Road.

But a witness, former policeman Philip Ball, who was driving directly behind Mr Thorne said he did not see the vehicle clip the curb, reduce its speed or apply its breaks.

He said he believed it was more likely Mr Thorne had fallen asleep at the wheel.

"All of a sudden the Renault veered off towards the junction of Bryn Road. It hit the curb, lifted up, careered into a grass verge and collided with the road sign.

"I firmly believe he probably dozed off."

In a written statement, Mrs Jones' sister Maureen Barr told the inquest Mrs Jones had placed the shoulder strap of the seatbelt behind her back during the journey.

A pathologist's report said Mrs Jones died from a traumatic haemothorax consistent with being thrown forward into a driver's seat during a road accident.

A Gwent Police investigation could not establish with any certainty if the car had hit the curb despite a slight scuff mark being found on a curb near the scene.

Gwent Coroner David Bowen, recording a verdict of accidental death, said it was not clear what had caused the car to veer off the road.

But he said he was certain Mrs Jones would have survived if she had worn her seatbelt properly.

"I hope those reading any report of this inquest will take heed of the consequences of travelling in a motor vehicle without your seatbelt properly fastened."