HIGHWAYS North West have released a video they want all motorists to watch.

CCTV footage captures the moment a driver decides to ignore a red X displaying on a motorway sign, on the M60 near Whitefield. 

The driver leaves it to the very last second before nipping in front of a lorry after a car had broken down in the outside lane.

The HGV driver is forced to brake sharply, narrowly avoiding a crash. 

A red X on a smart motorway indicates a full lane closure, and upon seeing one drivers should move across into another lane as soon as they can.

The fine for driving in a closed lane marked with a red X is £100 and three penalty points

Highways England guidance states: "A Red X sign indicates that a lane is closed to traffic. You must stay out of that lane as there may be an incident or people working ahead, and we may need to keep the lane clear to provide access for maintenance or emergency services.

"A Red X can be displayed on gantry signs above each lane or on large signs above the nearside (left hand) of the carriageway.

"It’s illegal to drive in a lane closed by a Red X sign. If you’re caught, you could receive a fixed penalty of up to £100 and three points, and in some cases more severe penalties or a court appearance. It’s the responsibility of the police to enforce Red X offences.

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"For your own safety and the safety of others, never drive in a lane closed by a Red X sign (unless instructed to do so by the police or those instructed by the police, such as our traffic officers)."