Firefighters from Yateley have expressed their frustration at drivers who ignored a closed lane on the M3, describing their behaviour as “unbelievable” and saying it severely delayed emergency response to a major crash.

At 5:58pm on Sunday, Yateley fire crews responded to a seven-vehicle collision on the M3, with assistance from Surrey firefighters. However, their progress was slowed significantly by drivers who brazenly ignored the red cross lane closures.

“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. “Luckily the first crew confirmed no persons were trapped.”

Driving in lanes marked with red crosses is illegal. Offenders risk a £100 fine and three penalty points on their licence. Some may face harsher punishments or court appearances depending on the circumstances.

“Please think and obey the signs,” warned Yateley Fire. “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.

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