The IAM is calling for more information and advice for drivers about SMART motorways, following a poll in which 71% of respondents said they would feel “less safe on a motorway with no hard shoulder”.
In the poll of more than 1,500 drivers, one of the main concerns raised related to the distance between safety refuges; 41% of respondents said this should be no more than 500 yards. And 40% doubted that monitoring systems on SMART motorways, such as electronic signs, can provide protection in the event of stopping in a running lane.
Simon Best, IAM chief executive, said: “SMART motorways are being rolled out across England but our survey shows that drivers want more reassurance and information on how safe they will be and how to use them.
“The IAM has been supportive of hard shoulder running but we have always said that the Highways Agency must be quick to learn and implement any real world lessons as more schemes come into use.”
I would have expected 100% to feel less safe on a motorway with no hard shoulder, because they clearly are.
Eric Bridgstock, Independent Road Safety Research, St Albans
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