The incident of a white van driver dangerously undertaking at 90mph on the M4 is just one example of the dangers of reckless driving on motorways.
The dangers of reckless driving on motorways
The video footage captured by an unmarked police car shows the van driver swinging from the outside lane to the inside lane, overtaking several vehicles on the way, and then moving back into the middle lane.
This is a clear violation of traffic rules and puts the lives of other drivers at risk.
Speeding and undertaking: a lethal combination
Speeding on motorways is a common problem, but when combined with reckless overtaking, it can lead to serious accidents and injuries. Drivers who undertake and exceed the speed limit reduce their reaction time and increase the force of impact in case of a collision. According to road safety experts, the risk of death or serious injury doubles for every 10 mph over the speed limit.
Undertaking, which involves overtaking another vehicle on the inside lane, is illegal in many countries, including the UK. It is an extremely dangerous behaviour, especially when the driver being overtaken is unaware of the other driver’s presence.
The video footage of the white van driver on the M4 is a stark reminder of the importance of following traffic rules on motorways. The police officers in the unmarked car were able to witness the dangerous driving and take appropriate action.
The importance of following traffic rules on motorways
However, not all reckless drivers are caught, and many accidents go unreported. It is important for all drivers to be responsible and avoid behaviours that put their lives and the lives of others at risk.
There are several steps that drivers can take to ensure their safety on motorways. First and foremost, it is important to obey the speed limit and avoid overtaking on the inside lane.
Drivers should also maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and be aware of their surroundings at all times. It is also important to avoid distractions, such as mobile phones or eating while driving, as these can lead to loss of concentration and delayed reactions.
Steps to ensure safety on motorways
In addition to being responsible on the road, drivers can also take advantage of technology to enhance their safety.
Many modern vehicles come equipped with features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warnings, which can help prevent accidents. GPS navigation systems can also provide real-time traffic information, helping drivers avoid congestion and potentially dangerous situations.
Conclusion
The incident of the white van driver dangerously undertaking at 90mph on the M4 is a clear example of the dangers of reckless driving on motorways.
It is important for all drivers to be responsible and avoid behaviours that put their lives and the lives of others at risk.
By following traffic rules, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, and being aware of their surroundings, drivers can help ensure their safety on the road.