M54 speed cameras go live

The cameras have been switched on between Junctions 3 and 5 where temporary 40mph and 50mph have been put in place.

It comes after the Highways Agency revealed that since the start of 2015 one road worker has been killed and six have been injured – three seriously working on road projects across the country.

The organisation has also reported several near misses with drivers driving through coned off areas or colliding with work vehicles.

Roadworks are in place between Junctions 3 and 5 of the M54 for resurfacing until May, resulting in narrow lanes and various closures of the carriageway and slip roads.

Temporary speed limits are in place in both directions – 40mph towards Shrewsbury and 50mph towards Birmingham which are being enforced by average speed cameras.

Anna Higgins, communications manager at the Safer Roads Partnership, said: "Speed enforcement on this stretch of the M54 is necessary while roadworks are taking place. Our main concern and the reason why we are undertaking enforcement is to ensure that both motorists and road workers are kept safe.

"Enforcement is taking place 24 hours a day by average speed cameras. We are therefore urging all motorists to exercise caution as they travel through the area and comply with the speed limits, which are clearly marked."

Meanwhile, a lorry driver was trapped after a crash on the M54 that closed the motorway and caused rush hour delays.

The westbound carriageway of the M54 was closed between Junction 3 at Albrighton and Junction 2 at Wolverhampton after the serious accident involving two lorries.

The crash happened shortly before 6am yesterday, just as the rush hour was starting.

Both lorry drivers were treated by ambulance crews.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: "Crews responded to a road traffic collision involving two HGVs.

"A man, believed to be in his forties, was trapped in his lorry. He was later released and treated for minor injuries before being taken to New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton for further assessment and treatment.

"The driver of the second vehicle involved was assessed at the scene before being released."

Traffic was stationary for 90 minutes on the motorway while it was fully closed. Delays were also caused on routes surrounding the area.