Shocking footage shows a driver cheat death after making a terrifying last-minute turn across a motorway.

The clip initially shows a black estate vehicle heading along the middle lane of the M60, near Manchester, surrounded by lorries and other vehicles.

But the car then violently veers left towards an off-ramp, missing the Armco barrier and a passing motorist in a grey hatchback with what seems like millimetres to spare.

The motorist who filmed the clip and spoke on condition of anonymity said the terrible manoeuvre was among the “worst” they’d ever seen on a motorway.

They said: “It was on Monday, October 10 at about 2 pm in the afternoon, and I was just coming back from Wakefield.

“I was on the M60 moving clockwise, coming up to the M61 junction, and the car in front had already cut me up a little bit.

“Then the next minute, out of absolutely nowhere, he comes flying in front of me. I couldn’t quite believe what he did – I just don't know how he didn’t crash his car.

“I could see water splash up on his windscreen, and credit to the car in front of him that managed to move out of the way.

“He then sped up at that point and flew off in the direction of Kearsley. I don’t think he wanted to be picked up.

“That’s definitely up there with the worst driving I have ever seen on the motorway, touch wood.”

The motorist who filmed the footage later posted his clip on Facebook group North West Dash Cam Videos, where other drivers voiced their disgust at the manoeuvre.

One wrote: "That is worthy of having the book thrown at them.

"But like mentioned, see all sorts at that exit. Its just this is so spectacularly close to being a shut motorway!"

Another added: "The pure disregard for other motorists is undeniable and they definitely deserve points on their licence and fined for without due care and attention on the motorway."

While a further user said: "What an absolute tool! Saw someone do this myself just further up that motorway a couple of days ago.

"One day someone will do this and not be so lucky and will serve them right."

It’s understood that Greater Manchester police have been informed of the incident, and they have been contacted for comment.