Nearly 100 drivers ignored M5 lane closure, West Mercia Police say

Almost 100 motorists were caught ignoring signage and driving in a closed motorway lane towards a broken-down vehicle, police have said.

West Mercia Police said 93 vehicles were caught on camera using the lane in a 30-minute period on the M5 northbound between junctions 6 and 5.

The force had shut the lane on a motorway in the region while the vehicle was recovered and a red “X” was displayed on gantry signs.

It added that all of the drivers recorded would receive a notice of intended prosecution – informing them that the force was investigating a road traffic offence.

“Every one of those drivers put themselves, police officers and other road users in real danger,” the force said.

“Fortunately, no collisions or injuries occurred, but the potential consequences of ignoring a lane closure don’t bear thinking about.”

It reminded road users not to use lanes displaying the red “X”, as there could be people, stopped vehicles or other hazards ahead.

A lane remains closed until a speed limit or the word END is displayed.

“Ignoring a red X isn’t just against the law – it could cost a life,” the force added.