When it comes to stopping or experiencing breakdowns on the motorway, adhere to the following guidelines:
- Stop only when flashing red lights are displayed above every lane.
- Follow instructions from police or traffic officers directing you to stop.
- Stop in the event of a traffic jam.
- Only stop in emergencies or breakdowns.
If overhead gantry signals advise you to move over, do so promptly. Only stop on the hard shoulder in case of an emergency. For any other reason, such as needing to rest or consult a map, either exit at the next available opportunity or proceed to a service area.
Should your vehicle break down or suffer a puncture, aim to safely reach the hard shoulder and call for assistance. If possible, utilize one of the emergency telephones, typically spaced at one-mile intervals. Marker posts positioned at 100-meter intervals guide you to the nearest phone, which connects directly to a control center. Here, an operator will manage your call and dispatch the appropriate services to aid you.
When using an emergency phone, stand facing oncoming traffic to maintain awareness of any approaching hazards. For instance, the draft from a passing large vehicle could catch you off guard if not anticipated. If you opt to use your mobile phone instead:
- Confirm your location (referencing the number on the nearest marker post) before placing the call.
- Provide this information to the emergency services for efficient assistance.
When preparing to re-enter the carriageway, drive along the hard shoulder to build up speed before merging back into the main traffic flow by finding a safe gap. If you’re unable to reach the hard shoulder when experiencing a breakdown:
- Activate your hazard warning lights to alert other drivers.
- Exit your vehicle only when it’s safe to do so and you can move away from the carriageway.