Tips for Driving Safely on Smart Motorways

Introduction to Smart Motorways

Smart motorways, first introduced in the UK with the M42 in the West Midlands in 2006, utilize Active Traffic Management (ATM) systems. These systems are controlled by regional traffic centers and are designed to increase road capacity and regulate traffic flow by implementing variable speed limits and allowing the hard shoulder to be used as an extra lane during peak times. According to Highways England, smart motorways can improve journey reliability by 22% and reduce personal injury accidents by more than half.

Key Features of Smart Motorways

Lane Designations

On smart motorways, the hard shoulder can be opened as an additional lane, known as "Lane 1", during high traffic volumes. It's crucial to pay attention to overhead gantry signs indicating whether the hard shoulder is in use as a running lane. If the hard shoulder is not in use, it should only be used in emergencies.

Emergency Refuge Areas (ERAs)

If you experience vehicle trouble on a smart motorway and the hard shoulder is active as Lane 1, you should aim to reach an Emergency Refuge Area (ERA). These are marked with blue signs featuring an orange SOS telephone symbol. ERAs are spaced at regular intervals and provide a safe spot to stop and seek assistance.

Red X Signs

A red "X" displayed on overhead gantries indicates that a lane is closed to traffic. This closure could be due to an accident, debris, or emergency vehicles needing clear passage. Driving in a lane marked with a red X is illegal and subject to fines, as it poses a risk to safety.

Variable Speed Limits

Smart motorways feature dynamic speed limits displayed on electronic signs above each lane. These limits adjust in real-time based on traffic conditions to help maintain smooth traffic flow and reduce congestion. Compliance with these limits is enforced by speed cameras, making it essential to stay alert and adhere to the displayed speeds to avoid penalties.

Benefits of Smart Motorways

Smart motorways offer several advantages, particularly for those in the courier and transportation sectors:

• Reduced Congestion: By using the hard shoulder as an extra lane and varying speed limits, these motorways can handle more traffic and reduce bottlenecks.
• Enhanced Safety: The controlled environment and real-time management help decrease the rate of accidents. Highways England reports a reduction in the number of fatal accidents on smart motorways compared to conventional motorways.
• Lower Emissions: Improved traffic flow leads to less idling and stop-start driving, which in turn reduces vehicle emissions.

Navigating Smart Motorways Safely

To maximize the benefits of smart motorways and ensure safety, drivers should:

1. Always observe and comply with the signs on overhead gantries.
2. Be prepared to change lanes safely if a red X is displayed.
3. Use ERAs for emergencies if the hard shoulder is active as a running lane.
4. Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to react to sudden changes in traffic flow or speed limits.

By understanding and respecting the rules specific to smart motorways, drivers can enhance their driving experience, making their journeys quicker, safer, and more efficient. For more detailed information on smart motorways, visit the Highways England website.

In conclusion, smart motorways are a significant advancement in road management, offering tangible benefits for professional drivers and everyday commuters alike. By adhering to the guidelines and utilizing the technology as intended, drivers can ensure they reap the benefits of these modern roadways.