WATCH: Police catch reckless hard shoulder driver attempting to avoid motorway collision clean up on M62

Image credit: Greater Manchester Police

A driver of a Nissan Micra was apprehended after attempting a dangerous manoeuvre along the M62, Greater Manchester Police reported.

The incident occurred at around 8.30pm on Sunday 29 September, near Littleborough, Rochdale, between Junctions 22 and 21. Emergency services were attending to a road traffic collision, which—though not severe—had caused significant disruption.

Officers were in the process of clearing debris from the wet motorway when a motorist, ignoring all warnings, decided to drive down the hard shoulder.

With roadblocks in place, the hard shoulder was reserved for emergency responders. The decision to bypass traffic in such a manner endangered first responders who were in the carriageway, including a paramedic and a pedestrian who were crossing at the time. This reckless action could have led to a far more serious incident.

Fortunately, a newly appointed officer from the Roads Policing Unit reacted swiftly. Using tactical contact, they brought the vehicle to a stop, resulting in only minor damage but successfully preventing a potentially severe outcome.

Chief Inspector Mike Parker commended the officer's quick response. He warned of the severe risks faced by motorway patrols and first responders. "This clip highlights the real dangers of motorway policing," Parker said, noting that the swift action of the officer involved helped avert injuries.

Retrospective action is now being taken against the driver. Greater Manchester Police have made it clear: endangering lives in the name of impatience carries serious consequences.

Chief Inspector Mike Parker added: “We can’t express how dangerous this driver’s action were, especially as a pedestrian and paramedic were crossing the carriageway following the initial crash.

“At times due to how busy our motorway network is you may be stuck in standstill traffic due to accidents, there is no excuse for ignoring the signage and becoming impatient it is there for a reason to ensure the safety of all. It will not be tolerated and in this case retrospective action is being taken against this irresponsible driver.”