A PANICKED driver pulled over on the hard shoulder after their car dashboard flashed up the word 'fire' – only to discover it was the name of the Adele track they were listening to.
This is just one of the choice excuses given by drivers for stopping illegally on the hard shoulder.
Document released by the Highways Agency today have unveiled some of the best reasons, which include proud grandparents taking a photo of a new-born grandchild, a driver renewing their insurance after realising it was out of date, and a duo who pulled over to complete the sale of a car.
Data released today, shows that between July and September last year 234 drivers in the South East stopped illegally on the hard shoulder, which may only be used in the event of an emergency.
Now agency officers are reminding drivers to stay within the law by keeping off the hard shoulder unless there is an emergency and paying attention to temporary road sings such as a red X which means it is illegal to keep using that lane.
Jamie Hassall, Highways Agency national enforcement co-ordinator, said: "Every day, millions of people use our motorways. Most of them use the hard shoulder correctly and don't ignore red X's, but we are appealing to the few who put themselves, other road users, and those working on motorways at risk.
"Where the hard shoulder is used as an additional traffic lane at peak times, you can only drive on it if there is a speed limit over it. When a red X is displayed over any lane, it's simple – don't drive on it."
The government is investing record amounts in roads, which includes making motorways 'smarter' by upgrading the most congested sections.
The Government is currently investing millions upgrading areas of the country's motorway network to become smart motorways – such as the Godstone section of the M25 – featuring high-tech speed cameras, changing speed limits and changeable signs to keep traffic flowing by warning of lane closures or queues.
Acting Inspector David Vale, from Surrey Police's Roads Policing Unit, said: "Safety on the roads is our priority - our units actively target and combat inappropriate behaviour on the motorways that puts the safety of road users at risk.
"Officers routinely stop and assist road users who are on the hard-shoulder, which is a dangerous and vulnerable location, for a variety of reasons – this includes people stopping on the hard shoulder for non-emergency situations."
He added: "Similarly, I urge all road users to stay alert and take note of motorway signals - they are used to warn you of a danger ahead. Take action if you see a red X – the lane underneath a flashing red X is closed and you must not proceed past the sign in that lane.
"Lanes may be closed to protect anyone on the road, such as the emergency services, highway workers as well as other road users. There also could be an incident up ahead or fog, a spillage or debris on the carriageway which you may not immediately be able to see."
Stopping on the hard shoulder illegally could incur you a £30 fixed penalty, while the fine for ignoring a red X sign can be £100.
The Institute of Advanced Motorists has echoed the call and is encouraging drivers to be prepared before they head out this summer.
Ten of the most inappropriate reasons given for stopping on the hard shoulder
- One motorist pulled over because they saw fire" on their dashboard display, it later turned out it was the name of the Adele track they were listening to.
- One motorist parked up and fell asleep on the M6.
- People stopping to read a map or check their sat-navs.
- Traffic officers stopped with two cars on the hard shoulder – the owners were half way through the selling and buying process for one of the cars.
- One driver realised their car insurance policy was up for renewal – they were ringing around for quotes to renew.
- Parents feeding children.
- Taxi drivers waiting on the hard shoulder around Heathrow airport for their client's flights to arrive.
- A mobile phone operator, stopping at regular intervals in their private car carrying out signal tests on the hard shoulder.
- A driver who stopped to pick flowers.
- Have you broken down Sir? No, came the reply, we are taking pictures of our new born grandchild (in their open top sports car) as it is a lovely day.
For more information visit www.highways.gov.uk/summer
