What is a smart motorway?

A smart motorway is a section of a road where technology is used to control traffic flow with the aim of reducing congestion, however, the roads have come under scrutiny from drivers. 

There are three main types: controlled, dynamic and all-lane running. In each type, drivers are directed by overhead gantries and speed limits are used to control traffic flow when there is congestion or a hazard. 

• On a dynamic smart motorway, the hard shoulder can be used as an extra lane during peak traffic, but the speed limit will be decreased to 60mph.
• Controlled smart motorways have a permanent hard shoulder and the technology influences speed limits to alter traffic flow.
• If you use an all-lane running smart motorway, the hard shoulder will have been removed, to be used as an extra lane with emergency refuge areas (ERAs) or laybys at regular intervals. 

How to drive on a smart motorway 

When you use a smart motorway, you must only use ERAs in case of emergency. This is because once your car has pulled into one, you can’t get back on the motorway until the authorities say so. 

Another thing to note is that you must not drive in a lane showcasing a red X on the gantry, if you do you will probably receive a police warning letter or worse, a fixed penalty fine. You should be fine if you stick to these two rules and of course, keep to the speed limit, however, remember to stay vigilant. 

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