Exclusive dashcam footage has revealed the heart-stopping moment a heavy goods vehicle driver careered into stationary traffic at nearly 50mph, causing a devastating multi-vehicle pile-up on a British motorway.
The Moment of Impact
The shocking video, obtained by Daily Mail, shows the lorry maintaining alarming speed as it approaches visibly stopped vehicles on the M1 motorway. Despite clear warning signs and brake lights from cars ahead, the driver appears to make no attempt to slow down or change lanes.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as "like something from an action movie" as the massive vehicle smashed into a van and multiple cars, sending debris flying across the carriageway.
Investigation Reveals Critical Failures
Transport authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident, which occurred during peak traffic hours. Preliminary findings suggest the driver failed to notice:
- Multiple warning signs indicating stationary traffic ahead
- Flashing matrix signals on overhead gantries
- Brake lights from vehicles several hundred metres ahead
- Other lorries already moving into the middle lane to avoid the queue
"This appears to be a classic case of driver inattention," said a senior traffic officer who wished to remain anonymous. "The driver had every opportunity to see what was coming, but for whatever reason, failed to react."
Miracle Escape for Motorists
Remarkably, despite the violent nature of the collision, all involved motorists survived with only minor injuries. Emergency services rushed to the scene, with paramedics treating several people for shock and whiplash injuries.
One driver involved in the crash told reporters: "I saw the lorry coming in my mirror and knew there was nothing I could do. The impact was enormous - it's a miracle nobody was seriously hurt."
Industry Calls for Safety Review
The incident has prompted fresh calls from road safety campaigners for improved driver training and technology in commercial vehicles. Many modern lorries now feature advanced emergency braking systems, though it's unclear if this vehicle was equipped with such technology.
Road Haulage Association spokesperson Kate Smith commented: "While the vast majority of professional drivers are highly skilled and safety-conscious, incidents like this highlight the catastrophic consequences when things go wrong. We must continually review and improve safety standards across the industry."
The driver involved has been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation, which could lead to serious charges including dangerous driving.
