More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
A reckless trucker has been caught watching a film for 20 miles while driving along the M20 in Kent early today.
The 40-year-old lorry driver, from Turkey, was spotted by another motorist swerving between lanes at J9 near Ashford.
Police were called and finally caught up with the man at J6 at Sandling. Shockingly, he was still watching the film on a laptop.
Officers pulled him over - giving him an on the spot fine of £500 for driving while not in proper control.
Police said the HGV has been "immobilised" because the driver was not immediately able to pay the fine. Officers are dealing with the driver at the side of the A228.
A police spokesman said: "We received a call at 1.50am in relation to bad driving.
"Any distraction - whether it's speaking on the phone or applying your make-up - is going to significantly increase your risk of being in a crash..." - James McLoughlin, from Brake
"The person who called claimed it looked as if the driver of an HGV was watching a DVD/TV screen whilst driving.
"This was seen between junctions 9 and 8 of the M20. It was reported to us that the vehicle was swaying onto the other carriageway.
"Police located the vehicle, and also observed the driver watching a film, so the lorry was escorted to the A228 Malling Road layby.
"The driver was subsequently reported for the offence of driving whilst not in proper control.
"The vehicle was immobilised as the driver was unable to settle the £500 penalty at the time."
Last week, a woman was spotted reading a book while driving a Nissan Micra on the M1.
James McLoughlin, from road safety charity Brake, warned the M20 case sends out an important message.
He said: "Most drivers have the common sense not to read a book or watch a film while driving, but any distraction - whether it's speaking on the phone or applying your make-up - is going to significantly increase your risk of being in a crash."
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