In England, the term “hard shoulder” refers to the lane on the side of a motorway or highway that is reserved for emergencies. This lane is not meant for regular driving, but instead is used for vehicles that have broken down or need to pull over for any reason.
The hard shoulder is typically marked by a solid white line and is bordered by a rumble strip to alert drivers when they are veering off the main road. In case of an emergency, drivers are advised to pull over onto the hard shoulder as far to the left as possible and turn on their hazard lights to signal other motorists.
It is important to note that the hard shoulder should only be used in emergency situations and not for regular stopping or parking. Using the hard shoulder for non-emergencies can lead to fines and penalties from law enforcement.
In the UK, there are also designated areas along the hard shoulder called emergency refuge areas (ERAs) where drivers can safely pull over and wait for assistance. These areas are equipped with emergency phones and are spaced out at regular intervals along the motorway to ensure that drivers have access to help when needed.
Overall, the hard shoulder plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of motorists on the road. By understanding its purpose and only using it in emergencies, drivers can help prevent accidents and keep traffic flowing smoothly.