Police issue warning to motorists

Road Policing Officers are warning motorists of the consequences of driving on restricted carriageways.

At around 2.30pm on Saturday 31st August, police responded to a road collision on the A720 (city bypass) westbound carriageway between Gilmerton and Lasswade.

During this incident a temporary road closure was put in place, but police  officers observed a number of individuals opting to drive the wrong way on the slip-road towards Gilmerton, to avoid the stationary traffic.

Ten motorists were charged with dangerous driving as a result and others are now being reminded that they will face similar action if they drive in a manner, which puts themselves or others at risk.


Inspector Roger Park from the Road Policing Unit in Edinburgh said: “While we fully appreciate the frustration caused when you are stuck in traffic, be it as a result of an accident, or general congestion, it is entirely unacceptable to drive the wrong way or on un-permitted areas, in an attempt to avoid delays.

“Such action increases your chances of being involved in a collision and it will not be tolerated.

“We are out on patrol, monitoring the road network on a daily basis and if you are found to be committing such an offence, you can expect to be charged.”

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