Hard Luck!

Sometimes, because of breakdowns or other emergencies, drivers are forced to park on the motorway. It’s very important to keep your wits about you in this situation and (unlike the man who was found trying to change a wheel in the outside lane of the M1) get off the main carriageway to a place of safety – namely, the hard shoulder.

Although I refer to the hard shoulder as a place of safety, it is actually one of the riskiest places on the motorway. If you are forced to stop on the hard shoulder, switch on your hazard lights, inform the authorities immediately and stay well clear of your vehicle while waiting for help.

Even if you can fix the problem yourself, for example changing a wheel, you will be a lot safer if there is a conspicuous police or breakdown patrol vehicle providing a protective shield behind your car.

So ... Remember the basic survival rules for driving on the motorway:

	Keep your distance
	Check your speed in poor weather conditions
	Stay alert at all times