A professional HGV driver has been removed from the roads after committing a shocking mobile phone offence while transporting highly dangerous cargo through the West Midlands.
West Midlands Police officers made the alarming discovery on the M6 toll road near Cannock, catching the driver red-handed with his phone in hand while operating a heavy goods vehicle filled with flammable liquids.
Dangerous distraction with explosive consequences
The incident, which occurred earlier this year, saw the experienced trucker putting countless lives at risk through his reckless behaviour. Driving while distracted is dangerous enough in any vehicle, but when transporting hazardous materials, the potential for catastrophe multiplies exponentially.
Police bodycam footage captured the moment officers confronted the driver, who initially attempted to deny using his device before admitting his dangerous actions.
Swift justice from the courts
The case moved quickly through the judicial system, resulting in the driver being disqualified from driving for six months. Additionally, he was hit with a significant financial penalty including court costs and victim surcharge, totalling hundreds of pounds.
This isn't the first time this driver has faced consequences for his behaviour behind the wheel, having previously received points on his licence for similar offences.
Police warning to all drivers
A West Midlands Police spokesperson emphasised the seriousness of the offence: "Using a mobile phone while driving is completely unacceptable, but when you're operating a heavy goods vehicle carrying flammable materials, the risks are unimaginable. A moment's distraction could lead to catastrophic consequences for the driver and every other road user."
The force has reiterated its commitment to targeting dangerous drivers through ongoing operations across the region's road network.
