DRIVERS ARE again being warned not to ignore high wind restrictions on the Forth Road Bridge.

Both Fife Police and bridge operator the Forth Estuary Transport Authority have issued a reminder to drivers not to risk their own and other motorists’ safety by trying to cross the bridge in windy weather.

FETA convener Tony Martin said drivers were risking their own safety and that of fellow drivers, not to mention causing traffic jams as they are forced into turning back to take an alternative route.

With more gale-force winds predicted, Mr Martin yesterday asked drivers to take heed of signs warning of high wind restrictions on the bridge approaches.

“In recent weeks we’ve seen a large increase in the number of wind-susceptible vehicles ignoring warning signs and trying to cross the bridge during strong winds.

“These drivers are risking their own safety and that of other road users, and this causes severe delays on the approach roads as the police have to stop the traffic and turn these vehicles around,” he said.

Mr Martin added that FETA staff members do not have the power to stop traffic on the approaches to the bridge, so had to rely on the help of the police.

“It’s been an exceptionally windy month and we are grateful to the police for the job they have done,” he said.

Mr Martin added that strong wind restrictions were clearly displayed on electronic signs on the approaches to the bridge.

“It is the individual driver’s responsibility to take heed of these warnings and divert via an alternative route.

“These restrictions are absolutely necessary for safety and to minimise traffic disruption caused by vehicles overturning on the bridge,” he added.

Fife Roads policing Inspector John McDonald said, “It is likely that vehicles of various classes will be prevented from crossing the Forth Road Bridge while strong winds are prevalent.

“High-sided vehicles, vans, double deck buses, caravans and motorcycles may be subject to restrictions.”

He added that travellers using these forms of transport were advised to heed road signs showing restrictions, follow the posted diversion routes and avoid the bridgehead area.