Drive smarter plea as new M1 rules come into force

The M1 in South Yorkshire is being officially relaunched as smart motorway, which means the hard shoulder is permanently converted to an extra 'live' lane- resulting in four lanes of traffic.

Highways England is currently technology testing along each section of the motorway with a phased opening to traffic that will be completed by Thursday.  

A 50 mph speed restriction is in place but once testing is completed, all four lanes will operate with a 70 mph limit.

Drivers are advised to take note of the overhead electronic signs, which are geared to prevent queuing by operating variable speed limits.

Incidents will be detected by traffic sensors, CCTV or calls from the public and the control centre will set signs to protect incidents and clear an access route for emergency vehicles.

A red X on the signs will show that a lane is closed. Driving in a lane with this symbol is dangerous and drivers must not use it.

Joanne Wehrle, education manager for the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership, said the removal of the hard shoulder would be a new experience for many drivers and they will need to take extra care as they adjust to the new system.

She said: “It will be vital that drivers take note and abide by the overhead electronic gantry and roadside signs.

“These will not be advisory signs but enforceable ones that will dictate the actual speed limit of each lane at busy times and will give instructions on lane closures.

“Drivers should also bear in mind that in the event of a vehicle breakdown they should try to make it to one of the emergency refuge areas that are being provided at 1.5 mile intervals along the motorway.

“There are emergency telephones in each refuge area that are connected to Highways England's Regional Control Centres.

“If they cannot make it to a refuge area they should try and get their vehicle off the carriageway.

“If a driver has to stop in a live lane, he or she should put on the car’s hazard warning lights, which will not only alert other drivers but will also allow the vehicle to be seen by control room staff using CCTV.

“If a vehicle breaks down in the left hand lane the driver should exit the vehicle via the left hand door if it is safe to do so and climb over the barrier. If a driver cannot get out of the vehicle safely they should remain there, keep their seatbelts on and dial 999.”

Highways England estimates that the upgrade will improve journeys for more than 95,000 drivers a day who use the 20-mile stretch of motorway affected.