Why don't National Highways educate drivers about motorways and the left lane?

Rather than have dangerous Smart Motorways, why don’t National Highways reduce congestion by simply educating people and enforcing the rule of driving on the left?

It is SO frustrating to see drivers who constantly hog the middle and outer lanes. This would mean freeing up more space on the motorway and reducing congestion. I do appreciate that lane one is often busy with slow movers, but there is often still plenty of space between them for lane two and three.

Asked on 2 September 2022 by tonytee

Answered by Dan Powell

I share your frustration - the motorway system would be far more efficient if some drivers didn't hog the middle lane.

To be fair to National Highways, it regularly displays electronic signs encouraging drivers to use lane one, unless overtaking. It is also a driving offence to use the middle lane when the road is clear (punishable by £100 fine and three penalty points).

Sadly, some drivers ignore this advice and the rules of the road.

Tags: highway code driving smart motorway driving laws

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