Smart Motorways in the news again.

[Talk Wrench]

They're back in the news again.

We have some professional drivers on here who've done more miles than most and it would be interesting to here some points of view on this.

Rishi Sunak has axed smart motorways. What will it mean for drivers?

Plans for new projects to increase capacity will be shelved ‘in recognition of the current lack of public confidence felt by drivers’

www.independent.co.uk

 

[Oldstacker]

I'm not a professional driver but my work patterns put me on motorways most weeks, if only for a few miles. Most of them 'smart' motorways and I really dislike them. I dread breaking down on one and feel sorry for anyone who does. The refuges are too far apart and are not long enough for anyone, let alone a hgv, to pick up speed before rejoining the lane. When lanes are closed too many drivers give the a good ignoring.
I'm surprised there hasn't been a major accident on one yet but think it's only a matter of time.

 

[Barch]

I'm not a professional driver but my work patterns put me on motorways most weeks, if only for a few miles. Most of them 'smart' motorways and I really dislike them. I dread breaking down on one and feel sorry for anyone who does. The refuges are too far apart and are not long enough for anyone, let alone a hgv, to pick up speed before rejoining the lane. When lanes are closed too many drivers give the a good ignoring.
I'm surprised there hasn't been a major accident on one yet but think it's only a matter of time.

There have been a few people killed on the M1 just south of Sheffield during 'Smart Hours'.

They would be a lot safer if they reduced the speed limit to 40 MPH during the periods that the hard shoulder is used as an active lane.