The AA’s latest study reveals a significant rise in driver anxiety on smart motorways, with a doubling of those feeling nervous or uneasy. Smart motorways, aimed at improving traffic flow by utilizing the hard shoulder as an additional lane, have faced criticism for safety concerns. Data shows a notable increase in anxiety levels among drivers stranded on smart motorways without a hard shoulder, as well as on motorways where the hard shoulder is only operational during peak times.
The research indicates a growing unease among drivers regarding the safety of smart motorways, with a survey of over 12,000 AA members showing a spike in anxiety levels over the past year. The government’s decision to halt the construction of new smart motorways due to public distrust and cost pressures further reflects the prevailing concerns.
AA President, Edmund King, emphasized the importance of reinstating hard shoulders in controlled motorway setups to restore driver confidence. The AA urges for enhanced transparency and consistency in evaluating and overseeing motorway safety. Concerns persist over the lack of clarity on safety assessments post-cancellation of new smart motorway projects, prompting calls for immediate release of safety reports to address the uncertainties.
The Department for Transport defends smart motorways as among the safest road networks in terms of fatalities or severe injuries. However, they acknowledge the ongoing need for vigilance and improvement, including the expansion of emergency areas. The government is committed to advancing road safety standards through the Road Safety Strategy, aiming to further enhance the safety of the road infrastructure.