This is the shocking moment a rickshaw driver crashes into a pile of earth left from roadworks in India.

Dramatic footage captures the speeding three-wheeled vehicle suddenly halting, nearly overturning, after ramming into the heap of soil in Surat on February 5.

The driver is seen exiting the vehicle as the video clip ends.

Local media reported that the pit was dug on the road and was left uncovered without any barriers or warnings.

Locals have criticised the administration for failing to take necessary precautions, such as putting up barricades to prevent accidents in the area.

India has one of the highest rates of road accidents in the world, with thousands of fatalities and injuries reported each year.

The poor track record is blamed on unsafe road conditions, reckless driving, inadequate enforcement of traffic laws, and a lack of awareness about road safety.