Empty Coach Crashes into Traffic Lights in Sandown After Avoiding Cyclist
An empty coach smashed into traffic lights in Sandown, Isle of Wight, this afternoon in a dramatic escape from a cyclist. The vehicle had just dropped off passengers at a local hotel before disaster struck.
Chaos at Sandown’s Broadway
The incident happened just after 4.20pm as the coach, operated by Davey Travel, turned off Royal Street into Broadway near the Heights Leisure Centre. Trying to avoid a cyclist, the driver swerved and crashed into a set of traffic lights, knocking them out and causing delays.
Hampshire Police rushed to the scene to manage traffic. They warn motorists to expect short delays as crews deal with the damaged lights and clear broken glass scattered across the road.
Witnesses Slam Driver’s “Shocking” Skills
Bystanders were less than impressed with the driver’s handling of the vehicle. One eyewitness described a series of failed manoeuvres around Grafton Street and Leed Street, including reversing awkwardly before disaster struck.
“He came along Grafton Street and tried to turn left into Leed Street. After several tries, he couldn’t manage it, so he reversed back into Grafton Street. Honestly, I thought he got his licence in a raffle!”
Andrea Wade, who saw the crash, told reporters:
“He took the wrong lane coming up from Sandown town, tried to turn right, and ended up taking the lights out with him. It was his mistake, no one else’s. I saw the whole thing.”
Davey Travel Claims Cyclist Avoidance Caused Crash
A spokesman for Davey Travel confirmed the driver’s sudden swerve was to avoid hitting a cyclist, which unfortunately led to the collision with the lights.
The area remains busy with police and repair crews working to restore normal traffic flow. Locals are advised to take caution when travelling through Sandown following the unexpected crash.
