Driver charged after attempting to U-turn across multi-lane highway in 18-metre truck

A truck driver has been charged in Italy after attempting what police called a “dangerous” U-turn across a major highway Wednesday.

Police have released CCTV footage of the incident, which took place on a stretch of highway between La Spezia and Parma in northern Italy.

The driver manoeuvers his truck – all 18 metres of it – into an emergency parking area before attempting to make a U-turn across multiple lanes.

Several drivers swerve out of the way as the truck attempts the tricky manoeuver, even driving in reverse at one point.

He eventually manages to complete his ill-advised U-turn, but by that point concerned motorists had already called police.

“Motorists could not believe their eyes,” Italy’s Polizia di Stato said in a statement. “Although they were terrified, they managed to avoid losing control of the situation, dodging the truck and braking in time.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "Motorists could not believe their eyes," Italy's Polizia di Stato said in a statement. "Although they were terrified, they managed to avoid losing control of the situation, dodging the truck and braking in time."

Police say the driver is facing a fine of up to 8,000 euros.