On June 10th 2019, a new smart motorway law came into force for UK drivers while using motorways which can produce an instant £100 fine if disobeyed. We’ll discuss the new law so you’re up to speed and help you avoid a fine.
So what is the new Smart Motorway Law?
As you may have seen throughout the country, the UK motorways are now becoming smarter with variable speed limits on smart signage, which also enables Highways England to open up hard shoulders to drivers, helping ease congestion but also provides the power of closing lanes if obstacles or accidents are ahead. Should drivers ignore the lane closures on these smart motorway signs and continue to drive in them they could put lives at risk. It is therefore this risk which will land you a fine of £100 should you continue to drive in a closed smart lane, as well as 3 penalty points on your licence.
Why has this change in the law come around?
The AA carried out analysis regarding motorway driving and found that 1 in 20 drivers had continued to drive within closed smart lanes, ignoring signs. There have even been instances where AA members had also been hit in a closed lane. From 2017 -2019 even Highways England have issued over 180k warning letters to drivers who failed to heed the closed lane signs. Therefore putting in place a hefty £100 fine and 3 points on your licence is aimed at making drivers aware of the importance of adhering to the smart motorway signage.
It’s clear that this new law is good news for the safety of every road user. Whilst there may be certain circumstances for exceptions we’d expect many drivers knowing this new law to obey it. The problem is that this Smart Motorway Law hasn’t received enough publicity and many drivers could be caught out. Hopefully now that we’ve advertised the new law all of you reading this article won’t be receiving a letter in the post making your wallet £100 lighter.
Do you service your car enough?
If you’re a constant motorway driver you’ll know the importance of servicing your vehicle frequently at the manufacturer’s recommended intervals. Here at MCM Garage we offer dealer quality car servicing at great pricing, ensuring your logbook is completed to assist with warranties. Get in touch with us today to get a quote on your next car service.