A number of drivers have been punished for using their phones around the scene of a crash on the M5 earlier today (March 2). The motorway remains closed between junctions 17 and 18 after a tipper truck collided with an overhead gantry at around 8.40am.
Avon and Somerset Police has this afternoon confirmed that eight motorists have been handed tickets for using their phones around the crash scene. It added that one of the guilty drivers was already on nine points prior to the offence and is now likely to be disqualified completely.
A further 17 drivers will also be receiving summons to court after using the hard shoulder to avoid the motorway traffic. Police have reiterated that the hard shoulder may only be used in the event of an emergency.
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Avon and Somerset Police said: "On scene of an RTC #M5 Bristol officers issued tickets to 8 drivers who thought it ok to use their phone while driving past. 1 driver, already on 9 points is likely to be disqualified now as taking a photo of the collision was more important than continuing their journey safely."
It added: "In addition, 17 drivers will be receiving a summons to court through the post for using the hard shoulder to avoid the traffic jam. The hard shoulder is there only in an event of an emergency..!!"
For all of the latest updates from the M5 crash and closure, follow our live blog here.
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