Many people wonder how to stay safe while driving on the motorway but don’t realize that there are many things you can do to avoid being a victim of motorway accidents. For example, many people fail to check their mirrors before they make a maneuver and end up making mistakes such as coming out in front of other vehicles, colliding with other vehicles or even losing control of the car in an accident. If you are one of these people, it is important that you check your mirrors before making a lane change. If you fail to do this, you are taking a risk of being hit from behind by someone who may not see you. This can result in serious injuries or even death.
It is also very important that you drive carefully and overtake only other vehicles that are moving slowly or cautiously. Always be prepared for emergencies and to signal your intentions clearly. Some people are just too impatient and forget to signal or slow down when driving on the motorway so this makes them a target for other drivers. Be aware of road works, workers and emergency vehicles. These are clearly visible with Chapter 8 livery. Find out more at https://www.pvluk.com/chapter-8-chevrons/
One of the main causes of motorway accidents is related to fatigue and driving too fast. If you are tired and feel like you have been driving for too long, it is probably time to take a break and get some fresh air and have a rest. So if you want to stay safe while driving on the motorway, it is always advisable that you take a break.
Smart motorway rules and breakdowns
Smart motorways bring their own rules. Never drive in a lane marked with a red X, as it is closed. Keep to the speed limit shown on the overhead gantries. A solid white line marks the hard shoulder, which should not be used unless signs direct you to, while a broken white line marks a normal lane. If warning lights come on, leave the motorway as soon as you can.
If you break down or have an accident, try to reach an emergency refuge area. These are signed with large blue signs showing an orange SOS phone and are painted orange on the road. Stop, switch on your hazard lights, leave by the passenger side and wait behind the barrier. Use the SOS phone to get instructions. Refuge areas are for emergencies only, never for a break or a phone call.
If you cannot reach one, get onto the verge if there is no barrier and it is safe. If you cannot get out safely, stay in the car with your seat belt on, hazards on, and call 999.
Speed, overtaking and rest on busy motorways
Motorways get especially busy in summer, with holiday traffic heading for the coast and airports, so a few habits matter even more. The speed limit for cars is 70mph, and if you are towing a caravan or trailer it drops to 60mph. Driving too slowly can be dangerous as well, and can lead to a fine.
Refresh your knowledge of the Highway Code from time to time. It covers the rules of motorway driving, what road signs mean and the markings you will see on different vehicles, such as the chevrons on the back of some service and maintenance vehicles.
When you need to overtake a lorry or caravan, check your mirrors thoroughly and only pull out when there is a safe gap, remembering that traffic behind is approaching quickly. Tiredness is one of the biggest dangers, and long straight stretches can make you zone out. Service stations are signposted along every motorway, so plan your stops and take regular breaks.