Drivers warned over hard shoulder use after survey results

May 2 2008

Drivers are being warned not to use hard shoulders unnecessarily on their bank holiday travels after some surprising survey results.

Half of all drivers, possibly including Car Finance customers, are unaware stopping on a shoulder is only legal if you have broken down, esure research says.

Separating squabbling children and stopping to go to the toilet were among common reasons given by people who admitted pulling up illegally.

Spokesman for esure Mike Pickard said: "Those planning to drive on UK motorways, should ensure they are clear on where they can and can't drive on the hard shoulder."

Car loan customers could also be interested to know there were gender differences, with men more likely to stop inappropriately on the hard shoulder than women.

Government plans to open up hard shoulders at certain times to reduce congestion were also called into question as the majority of drivers would feel less safe if the shoulder was unavailable.

The M6 between Manchester and Birmingham is one route being considered for peak-time hard shoulder use.

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