WORRIED residents are demanding new road safety measures at a “trouble-spot” where a car mounted a grass verge before crashing into a hedge.

Although the woman driving the car escaped unhurt, the accident on Uplawmoor Road has left nearby residents fearing a fatality is only a matter of time.

Those who live in the area – which acts as the main route between Neilston and Uplawmoor – say there has been a series of incidents involving motorists there in recent times.

Calls have now been made for East Renfrewshire Council (ERC) to introduce speed cameras or a new speed limit on the stretch of country road, where black ice is said to be an added problem during the winter months.

Speaking in the aftermath of the latest crash, one concerned resident, who asked to remain anonymous, told the Barrhead News: “It was a worrying incident, as it could have been a lot worse.

“There is no pavement – just a grass verge – and, because the car was coming from Uplawmoor, it crossed the other lane. Thankfully, no other car was coming along at the time.

“The road needs either speed cameras or a 30mph speed limit.”

The resident added: “For years, we’ve had problems with cars speeding on Uplawmoor Road.

“Many vehicles drive too fast, although the accident the other night would have happened anyway because of the black ice. A few years ago, a car hit a tree in our garden and that was due to speeding.”

A spokesman for ERC said Uplawmoor Road is a priority gritting route and has been treated regularly throughout the winter period.

He added: “We have not had any complaints in relation to speeding on this stretch of road. However, we would always urge drivers to take weather conditions into account, especially on rural roads.

“Speed cameras are only installed in areas that are identified as having an issue with speeding and, as such, there are no current plans for cameras to be installed on this road.”

Inspector John McQuilter, who is based at Giffnock Police Station, said: “We attended an accident at The Grove, just off Uplawmoor Road, on December 26.

“The driver did not sustain any serious injuries and details were passed on to the roads department at East Renfrewshire Council.”