All lane running inquiry: RAC reacts to latest evidence given

Following today's Commons' Transport Committee session looking at all lane running smart motorways, RAC ​ head of external affairs Pete Williams said:

“We have consistently ​ raised the issue about the lengthy spacing between emergency rescue ​ areas (ERAs) on all lane running smart motorways, so it is extremely good news for motorists’ safety that ​ distances between them will be reviewed.

"A study of RAC breakdowns on ​ the all lane running sections of the M25 found that only 42% of ​ motorists who broke down were aware that ERAs existed, while only 28% could see an ERA from where they broke down. Clearly this indicates that better signage of ERAs should be a priority on existing and future stretches of smart motorways.

“We ​ also welcome the announcement that there will be a public information ​ programme to educate drivers on how to use smart motorways, which is ​ clearly needed. With no hard shoulder, the safety of a motorist who has broken depends on ​ other drivers complying with red ‘X’s that indicate a lane is closed. ​ While 92% red ‘X’ compliance appears high, there has to be a real ​ concern about the remaining 8% that ignore the overhead signage thus increasing the potential for a serious accident.

“Every step should be taken to ensure that motorways do not lose their status as the UK’s safest roads.”

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