Suffolk Police have issued a stern warning to motorists following an incident in Haverhill where multiple drivers were caught photographing and filming a collision scene while driving.
On Thursday, August 22, police officers responded to reports of a lorry driving over a roundabout on Enterprise Way at approximately 5:25 a.m..
While the lorry driver did not sustain serious injuries, he was taken to the hospital for precautionary checks.
During their attendance at the scene, officers observed 18 drivers taking photographs or videos of the collision. These motorists are now expected to receive notices requesting driver details, which may result in a £200 fine and six penalty points on their licences.
PC Wayne Sturman of the Commercial Vehicle Unit expressed his disappointment, stating, “It was incredibly disappointing to see so many people flouting the law in front of our eyes by taking photos or videos of the collision scene.” He added that two of the offenders were HGV drivers, which he described as “particularly thoughtless and negligent” given their professional status and the nature of the accident.
In addition to the photo-taking incidents, officers witnessed a van driver navigating the wrong way around the roundabout and driving across a grass verge to avoid the road closure. This driver will also face prosecution for driving without due care and attention.
PC Sturman emphasised the dangers of using a phone while driving, especially in situations where drivers might be further distracted by collision scenes. He warned that offenders would face both financial penalties and points on their licences. For new drivers who have held their licences for less than two years, the six-point penalty could result in licence revocation.
More news from Haverhill
