Motorists are being urged to take extra care in areas where work is being carried out on the Island’s roads.
The message follows a number of recent near misses involving members of staff from the Department of Infrastructure.
The latest incident occurred last week when a Highway Services employee narrowly avoided being struck by a motorist in Gansey.
Drivers are encouraged to abide by all road signage, be vigilant to the presence of workers and slow down while passing through roadworks.
David Anderson MLC, Department Member with responsibility for Highway Services, said:
‘A member of our staff came within a few feet of being run down in Gansey by a motorist who overtook another vehicle in an area that was clearly signed. This sort of behaviour is unacceptable and endangers the wellbeing of people who are simply trying to do their jobs. The safety of our employees is of paramount importance and I would urge motorists to drive considerately where people are working. This applies not only around the bigger schemes, but also where lone members of staff may be carrying out survey and maintenance work at the side of the road.’
Sergeant Steven Lapsley, Head of the Roads Policing Unit, added:
‘We want people to share the road responsibly. Incidents of this nature can be prevented if motorists pay attention to signs indicating the presence of workers in the road. Dangerous driving will not be tolerated and offenders can expect to be caught and prosecuted.’
