HGV drivers are calling for a ban on working in high winds.

This is according to the Telegraph, which states that unscrupulous haulage companies are forcing their employees to stay on the road during extremely blustery conditions. Transport unions claim this is despite the increased danger of a lorry overturning and causing serious injury or even death.

Drivers have complained about a high level of pressure levied on them by bosses, who seem too preoccupied with profits and punctuality than the safety of their workforce. The government is now being urged to take action to prevent accidents, especially during the current storms affecting large parts of the country.

A number of roads have already been closed over the past few weeks as a result of lorries overturning. In December, a truck driver was killed after his vehicle was blown onto three other cars in West Lothian.

Lee Pimbley, spokesman for the United Road Transport Union, commented: "They [government officials] are not doing enough. They need to put rules in place to stop companies putting pressure on drivers. This will make the roads safer for all users."

The Department for Transport had defended its current course of action, stating employers are responsible under health and safety legislation to ensure workers are not put at unnecessary risk.