A council worker has been struck by a HGV when its driver ignored road closure signs in Cumbria.
Work is being carried out at Sedbergham Bridge and the road is shut.
Cumberland Council said: “A council highways team member was struck by a HGV wagon, when a driver ignored clearly marked road closure signs and drove into the worksite.
“This reckless act is completely unacceptable and emphasises the critical need for drivers to follow road safety protocols during roadworks.”
It urged drivers to exercise caution and respect road closure signs.
The authority added: “Road closures are essential to protect everyone during road improvement works, including drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and council workers. These closures are not optional but necessary measures to prevent incidents like the one at Sebergham Bridge.
“To ensure the safety of its staff, the council has implemented a comprehensive three-part strategy to deter abusive and reckless behaviour. Large boards featuring images of highway team members and their families remind drivers of the human cost of unsafe actions, select team members now wear bodycams to record breaches of road closures and abusive behaviour, and mobile CCTV and signage cameras are deployed to monitor roadwork areas, capturing any violations or threatening acts.
“The council emphasises that employees deserve a safe working environment, free from threats and intimidation, and warns that any form of abusive behaviour, whether physical or verbal, will result in appropriate legal action. The public are urged to respect all road closure measures and treat staff with respect.
“The Highway Code prohibits driving through roadworks marked by cones or signs. Motorists are reminded to obey temporary speed limits and to look for additional signs with specific instructions.”
