Motorists who photographed crash face prosecution

Four drivers will be sent a notice of intended prosecution for driving without due care and attention or without consideration for other road users after they took photographs of a road traffic accident on the M5 in Gloucestershire.

A caravan collided with the central reservation of the M5 southbound, close to Michaelwood services and blocked the third lane at about 3.20pm on Monday, July 28 and Police have heavily criticised drivers who used their mobile phones to photograph or video the aftermath of the crash.

While officers stood at the scene awaiting the recovery of the vehicle, they noted 12 motorists acting irresponsibly.

In some cases the actions of the drivers caused other road users to take evasive action.

The others will be sent warning letters regarding their use of a mobile phone.

PC Shelley Holloway explained: “We were dealing with a caravan that had overturned.

“Thankfully nobody was injured in the collision. However the actions of several motorists who drove through the scene showed no regard for their own or of other people’s safety, as they used their mobile phones to record or video the wreckage as they passed.

“In doing so, they were not in proper control of their vehicle. They slowed down causing motorists behind them to brake or take evasive action and slow the flow of traffic that was already heavily congested.

“One of the causes of serious injury and fatal collisions is the use of mobile telephones. We urge motorists to switch off their telephones and lock them away if they feel temptation is too great whilst they are driving. You can only legally use your phone if mounted on a fixed point and hands free kit is used, however it is still as distracting as talking to a passenger.”

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Neil Davies

Motoring Lawyer at Caddick Davies Solicitors

Caddick Davies is recognised as one of England and Wales’ leading motoring law firms, offering specialist Speeding Solicitors, Drink Driving Solicitors & Dangerous Driving Solicitors.We provide advice and representation on all motoring offences including speeding, the avoidance of disqualification on penalty points or “totting up” (exceptional hardship), driving without due care and attention (careless driving), dangerous driving, drink driving, as well as a range of services related to medical revocation of a driving licence.

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