The AA’s recent study shows a significant rise in the number of drivers feeling apprehensive on modern “smart” motorways. These motorways utilize innovative technology to convert the hard shoulder into an extra lane, with England boasting 396 miles of such roads as of April 2024.
Despite the aim to alleviate traffic congestion, smart motorways have faced criticism for their safety concerns. Over the years, at least 79 fatalities have been linked to accidents on these motorways. Research indicates that breakdowns on motorways without a hard shoulder pose a higher risk, with a threefold increase in fatalities or severe injuries compared to traditional roads with a permanent hard shoulder.
A survey conducted among 12,705 AA members highlighted a doubling in the percentage of individuals feeling uneasy on smart motorways without a hard shoulder, reaching 46% from 23% the previous year. Even on motorways where the hard shoulder is occasionally opened during peak hours, anxiety levels surged from 30% to 47% within the last 12 months.
In response to growing concerns, the Tory government announced in April 2023 the discontinuation of new smart motorway projects due to public distrust and financial constraints. The AA president, Edmund King, emphasized the necessity of reinstating the hard shoulder in controlled motorway environments to restore confidence in smart motorways.
The AA stressed the importance of transparent and consistent safety evaluations for motorways. The organization urged prompt disclosure of safety reports for existing smart motorway sections to assess their performance accurately.
While the Department for Transport defends smart motorways as the safest road option in terms of serious accidents, criticisms remain. The government spokesperson highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance smart motorways, including the addition of more emergency refuge areas to enhance user safety.
As safety remains a top priority, the government is committed to raising road safety standards further through its Road Safety Strategy, the first of its kind in over a decade.