Lorry driver sentenced after A27 collision caused 18-hour road closure
The crash near Shoreham caused widespread disruption across the county
A lorry driver who caused an 18-hour closure on the A27 near Shoreham has pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention.
Raymond Cox, 63, from Erith, crashed his heavy goods vehicle (HGV) into a parked HGV near the Holmbush Centre in July 2025. His vehicle crossed lanes and struck the parked HGV, which was stationary during a scheduled break.
Fortunately, the parked vehicle’s driver was uninjured, while Cox sustained only minor injuries.
However, the collision resulted in major disruption, closing the A27 westbound for approximately 18 hours while vehicle recovery and resurfacing work took place. The closure caused considerable congestion across the county.
Cox appeared at Crawley Magistrates’ Court on 20th January 2026 and admitted the offence. He was given nine penalty points on his licence and ordered to pay £1,880 in fines and court costs.
PC Gregory from the Roads Policing Unit investigated the case and said: “This collision was entirely avoidable and highlights how a moment’s lapse in concentration can have serious consequences on a road like the A27.
“While it was fortunate that no one was seriously injured, the impact of this collision was significant, not only to the victim but also to the community. An 18-hour closure of the A27 caused widespread disruption, affecting motorists and local communities.
“Offences like this will be taken seriously. Where standards fall below what is expected, we will investigate, and offenders can expect to face the courts.”