Five times you should never use the hard shoulder

Motorway travel is a part of everyday life for many in the UK, whether you're commuting to work, heading on a road trip, or running errands. But while the hard shoulder might seem like a convenient place to pull over when something goes wrong, or even when it doesn’t, it should only ever be used in emergencies.

This critical rule was tragically highlighted earlier this year when a child was spotted walking dangerously close to traffic on the M4. The shocking reason? Their parents had pulled over to give the child a "time out." The incident sparked widespread concern and led Highways England to issue a warning about the dangers of misusing the hard shoulder.

Simon Jones, regional director south east for Highways England, said:
"Drivers often think the hard shoulder is a safe place to stop, but over 100 people are killed or injured on the hard shoulder every year. We don't want you to become one of those statistics; we want you to stay safe."

Here are five common scenarios when stopping on the hard shoulder is not only unnecessary but potentially life-threatening and safer alternatives you can use instead.

1. Stopping for a snack

It’s tempting to think, “I’ll just pull over for a moment,” when hunger strikes during a long journey. However, snacking on the hard shoulder is a risk not worth taking. Even the briefest stop puts you at the mercy of high-speed traffic, where the smallest mistake can lead to devastating consequences.

What to do instead
Plan your journey to include breaks at service stations or motorway rest areas. Not only can you safely grab a bite to eat, but you’ll also have the opportunity to stretch your legs and recharge for the next stretch of your trip.

2. Checking directions or sat nav

If you’ve missed a turn or are unsure of your route, pulling over to the hard shoulder might feel like the obvious solution. However, stopping here to adjust your sat nav or check a map creates an unnecessary hazard for you and other road users.

What to do instead
Trust your sat nav to reroute you automatically, or wait until you can exit the motorway safely. If you need to stop and regroup, service stations and quieter side roads provide a much safer alternative.

3. Taking a toilet break

We’ve all experienced the urgency of needing a bathroom break mid-journey, but the hard shoulder is not the place to stop. Pulling over for this reason is incredibly risky and entirely avoidable with the right planning.

What to do instead
Before setting off, ensure everyone in the car has used the bathroom. Limit fluid intake during the trip, and plan regular stops at service stations where facilities are readily available. If an emergency arises, exit the motorway at the nearest junction and find a safe location.

4. Reading or sending a text

Using your phone while driving is dangerous, and pulling over onto the hard shoulder to check a message isn’t much safer. The presence of a stationary vehicle can confuse other drivers, potentially leading to accidents.

What to do instead
Activate your phone’s “do not disturb” feature while driving to avoid distractions. If a message truly cannot wait, stop at a service station or wait until you’re safely off the motorway to respond.

5. Stretching your legs

Long journeys can lead to stiffness and discomfort, so it’s crucial to take breaks. However, the hard shoulder is one of the worst places to do this. Even stepping out of the vehicle for a quick stretch is extremely dangerous in such a high-speed environment.

What to do instead
Schedule regular stops at service stations, where you can stretch and walk around safely. These breaks will help you stay alert and reduce the risks associated with driver fatigue.

When is it appropriate to use the hard shoulder?

The hard shoulder is there for emergencies only, such as:

• Mechanical breakdowns
• A punctured or blown tyre
• Sudden illness or medical emergencies

If you absolutely must stop on the hard shoulder, follow these steps to maximise safety:

• Pull over as far to the left as possible, turning your steering wheel to the left.
• Turn on your hazard lights immediately.
• Ensure all passengers exit the car from the left-hand side.
• Stand behind the safety barrier, far away from the carriageway.
• Use roadside markers to identify your location and call for assistance.

Why hard shoulder misuse is so dangerous

Every year, countless lives are put at risk because drivers misuse the hard shoulder. Whether it’s stopping for a snack, stretching your legs, or responding to a message, these actions can lead to unnecessary accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

By respecting the rules of the road and planning your journeys carefully, you can avoid dangerous situations and keep yourself, your passengers, and other road users safe.

Preparation is key

One of the best ways to stay safe on the road is by being prepared. Regular vehicle maintenance, reliable breakdown cover, and quality car insurance are essential for tackling emergencies.

At Compare UK Quotes, we help drivers find the best deals on car insurance and breakdown cover so that you can travel with peace of mind. Stay safe, plan ahead, and remember - the hard shoulder is for emergencies only.