Wise motorway fears revealed

9/5/14

By Simon O’;Hare

Several drivers are worried about their security on new Sensible motorways which are getting introduced across England, according to a survey.

Around 6 out of 10 drivers (71%) stated they would feel less secure on a motorway with no a challenging shoulder, study from the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) revealed.

A strategy to make security refuges additional apart on motorways is a essential concern, with nearly half (48%) of drivers suggesting there must a maximum of 500 yards (.45km) amongst each 1.

The response was not wholly adverse even though, as about 4 in 10 (42%) consider Sensible motorways have eased congestion and a equivalent proportion (43%) stated they have cut journey occasions.

One particular in 3 motorists (32%) stated they would help undertaking getting legalised on Wise motorways.

But the survey has prompted the IAM to suggest drivers require more advice, with 2-thirds (67%) of respondents saying they have not noticed any publicity about Smart motorways.

“Wise motorways are becoming rolled out across England but our survey shows that drivers want far more reassurance and details on how protected they will be and how to use them,” stated IAM chief executive Simon Very best.

“The IAM has been supportive of hard shoulder running but we have constantly stated that the Highways Agency have to be swift to discover and implement any true planet lessons as more schemes come into use.”

The IAM advises drivers to take note of the overhead gantries on Smart motorways, as they provide data about traffic situations and lane access for the road ahead.

• A red cross without flashing beacons signifies the tough shoulder is to be used for breakdowns and emergencies only, the IAM points out.


• A speed limit inside a red circle indicates it is totally mandatory and there might be cameras in spot to enforce it.


• A red cross with flashing beacons is telling drivers to cease using a given lane, while a blank signal implies usual motorway rules apply.

The IAM says a white arrow with flashing beacons applies to all lanes and indicates drivers must move into the lane that the arrow is pointing to.

And when a national speed limit sign is shown, it signifies the 70mph maximum is applicable to all lanes apart from the difficult shoulder.

Wise motorway fears revealed