MOTORISTS who photographed the aftermath of a collision are set to be prosecuted by police.

A caravan collided with the central reservation of the M5 southbound, close to Michaelwood services and blocked the third lane on the afternoon of July 28.

After the collision an officer at the scene witnessed twelve motorists filming or photographing with their mobile phones while they where driving.

In some cases their behaviour caused other road users to take evasive action.

Four people will now be sent notices of intended prosecution for driving without due care and attention or without consideration for other road users and the others will be sent warning letters regarding their use of a mobile phone.

PC Shelley Holloway said: "We were dealing with a caravan that had overturned. Thankfully nobody was injured in the collision. However the actions of several motorists who drove through the scene showed no regard for their own or of other people's safety, as they used their mobile phones to record or video the wreckage as they passed.

"In doing so, they were not in proper control of their vehicle. They slowed down causing motorists behind them to brake or take evasive action and slow the flow of traffic that was already heavily congested.

"One of the causes of serious injury and fatal collisions is the use of mobile telephones. We urge motorists to switch off their telephones and lock them away if they feel temptation is too great whilst they are driving. You can only legally use your phone if mounted on a fixed point and hands free kit is used, however it is still as distracting as talking to a passenger."