You could be fined £100 if you ignore a motorway sign – drivers always miss it

THOUSANDS of drivers ignore this important motorway sign and are fined £100.

National Highways has issued an urgent warning as nearly 10,000 motorists have been caught in just three years.

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When an accident or traffic accident has occurred on the highway, a red X sign is often displayed over the affected lane.

It lights up to prevent motorists from clogging the road or impeding access by emergency services vehicles.

The red Xs were enforced by Surrey Police in 2019 and in three years nearly 10,000 notices of intended prosecution have been issued to drivers who failed to follow the rule.

It has actually been a criminal offense to violate this section of the road traffic regulations for more than 20 years, but cameras have only been set up to photograph the defaulting motorists since 2019.

Chief Constable Jo Shiner, head of the National Road Police Commissioners’ Council, said To express: “For your safety and the safety of others, there are red x signals on the Autobahn.

“Unfortunately, there are too many instances where motorists ignore a red x-signal and put others in incredible danger by driving in a closed lane.

“This is unacceptable and drivers who do this must understand that they will be prosecuted.”

National Highways Traffic Officer Dave Harford added: “We do not take the decision to close lanes lightly, but when we do, drivers must comply with the closure.

“A red x-signal is for the safety of all road users – including people in distress, traffic cops, rescue and rescue services who assist them, and all other road users.”

Half of the drivers caught by this rule attended safety training, while the remaining violators paid a fine or went to court.

This is because drivers are unaware of any other Road Code rule which could cost them between £500 and £2,500 if they break it.

With ice, snow, fog and heavy rain, winter driving demands more from motorists which means they should be extra careful.

Many drivers start their engines and head back inside to allow their cars to warm up and de-ice in the comfort of their own home.

But experts say leaving your car unattended for too long can result in a fine of up to £801, and you’re also leaving it open to thieves.

You should also ensure that you are not wearing anything that will impede proper control of the vehicle, such as gloves, rubber boots or heels.

The maximum penalty for doing so is £1,000.

Everyone wears a coat in the winter, but riders should avoid large and bulky winter coats as this limits freedom of movement.

You can also be fined £1,000 if caught by police with a coat that could affect your ability to drive, according to Comparethemarket.