PURBECK police have urged drivers to act responsibly when approaching the aftermath of an accident.

They've also warned poor driving and impatience could get someone killed.

The caution comes after drivers ignored instructions given by police officers to slow down following an accident on Valley Road, Harman's Cross, on Tuesday morning.

A vehicle came off the road and ended up in a hedge, prompting officers to attend the scene.

However, despite being told to wait one driver ignored directions given by the officer and continued to drive through into oncoming traffic.

Meanwhile, another vehicle drove over the traffic cones that had been placed to allow safe recovery of the crashed vehicle.

No-one was injured in the incident but a Purbeck police spokesman said: "Every officer hates having to direct traffic at the scene of crashes.

"The main reason is it is unbelievably dangerous. But they do it to keep you safe and moving, to get you where you need to go.

"If they didn't, it would be something out of Wacky Races."

If you approach a crash where police are directing traffic, please heed the warning signs, follow the instructions given by officers and slow down.

"Despite the dangers, the abuse, the 10 different plates officers have to spin at the scenes of such accidents and the complete disregard shown for the safety of those at the scene by some drivers, officers attend these incidents to help the public and keep people safe," said the spokesman.

"Please think when you come across the scene of a crash or incident. Poor driving and impatience could get someone killed, waiting your turn will not."