An HGV driver who nodded off at the wheel on the M25 has been fined £700 for breaching driving hours regulations. The incident occurred early yesterday morning at around 6:30am when the lorry veered off the carriageway, forcing the closure of the busy Essex stretch between Junctions 27 and 28 clockwise.
Miraculously, no injuries were reported, but officials have warned about how close the incident came to a serious disaster.
The recovery costs for the heavy goods vehicle are expected to reach approximately £7,000. After the lorry is removed, National Highways teams will inspect and repair any damage caused to the nearside barrier.
Drivers affected by the closure are advised to follow the Hollow Triangle diversion symbol. The recommended diversion route is as follows:
Exit M25 Junction 27 and head onto the M11 towards London. At M11 Junction 4, switch to the A406 South (North Circular Road). Take the A12 at the Redbridge Interchange and then exit towards Chelmsford at the roundabout. Continue along the A12, and at the ‘Gallows Corner’ roundabout take the second exit to the ‘Brook Street’ roundabout. Take the third exit to rejoin the M25 at Junction 28 anticlockwise.
Motorists are advised to expect delays, consider alternative routes, or postpone travel if possible.
Originally published by UKNIP.
