Drivers risk fine and three points for stopping on motorway even in emergencies

There are many motoring rules which Brits must abide by in order to avoid fines and penalty points.

The Highway Code is always changing its regulations but drivers should always be kept up to date.

Now motorists might not know that stopping on a hard shoulder on the motorway could get them into trouble.

READ MORE: Four new motoring laws to hit next month – from phone usage to driving abroad

Be wary of "smart motorways" where the hard shoulder could be used as a lane, or even emergency refuge areas.

Improper use of the hard shoulder or refuge area could result in a £100 fine and three points on someone's driving licence.

As a result of the rules, many experts are questioning whether fining drivers for stopping is suitable.

Graham Conway, managing director of Select Car Leasing, has called for better guidance on what accounts for an emergency.

He said: "It's clear if your car breaks down, that's a bona fide emergency that requires you to get to the hard shoulder.

"But when it comes to other 'emergencies', the guidance given in the Highway Code actually makes for something of a grey area.

"It's clear the hard shoulder should only be used as a 'last resort' – but I'd argue this definition will differ from person to person."

He advised there to be more clarity from Department for Transport (DfT) so drivers can navigate smart motorways.

Graham argued that stopping on the hard should for a phone call or to use the toilet is not considered as an emergency.

Stopping on the hard shoulder for a "medical emergency" is acceptable.

Rule 271 of the Highway Code states drivers must not stop on any carriageway, emergency area, hard shoulder or verge.

Graham continued: "We're told not to pull onto the hard shoulder to either vomit or allow a passenger to be sick.

"But for lots of people, that will be seen as a medical emergency that necessitates a hard shoulder stop.

"Again, some clarity on the issue would be helpful."

The Highway Code even states people should only change tyres if they're not putting others at risk, otherwise call a service.

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