Firefighters from Yateley have expressed their frustration after drivers ignored a closed lane on the M3, severely delaying emergency response efforts following a seven-car collision. The incident occurred on Sunday at 5:58pm, when Yateley fire crews, supported by Surrey firefighters, rushed to the scene.
Despite the lane being sealed off with red crosses, many drivers continued to use it, making it extremely difficult for emergency services to reach the crash site promptly. “While en-route to the incident the number of cars still travelling in the closed lane was unbelievable and made progress difficult,” said Yateley Fire. Fortunately, the first crew on scene confirmed that no persons were trapped in the vehicles.
Driving in lanes marked with red crosses is illegal and carries penalties including a £100 fine and three penalty points on the driver’s licence. Some offenders may face harsher punishments or court appearances depending on the circumstances.
Yateley Fire issued a strong warning to motorists: “Please think and obey the signs. They’re there for a reason. Ignoring them not only breaks the law but delays emergency teams from saving lives. Every minute counts in a crisis!”
Originally published by UKNIP.
