Motorists across the UK are being warned they could receive penalty points and fines for common motorway driving errors, even when travelling below the 70mph national speed limit.
The Hidden Dangers of Variable Speed Limits
One of the most common ways drivers inadvertently break the law is by ignoring variable speed limits. These temporary restrictions are activated on digital gantries above the motorway to manage congestion or respond to incidents.
Variable speed cameras have caught thousands of drivers on the M6 in the West Midlands alone over recent years, proving that enforcement is active and widespread. When a reduced limit flashes overhead, compliance is mandatory, regardless of whether traffic appears light.
Middle-Lane Hogging and Slow Driving Offences
Another significant offence that attracts police attention is middle-lane hogging. Many drivers remain unaware that continuously driving in the middle lane without overtaking is illegal and can be penalised.
Warwickshire Police recently highlighted this issue after officers intercepted a driver on the M6 Northbound. The motorist was travelling between 55-60mph in the middle lane with no obstructions in the left lane. Police removed the driver from the motorway and issued a ticket for driving without reasonable consideration for other road users.
The force stated: "Officers are seeing more and more people driving in this way, seemingly unaware of the dangers it poses." The offending driver likely faces a driver improvement course at their own expense.
Similarly, driving too slowly without valid reason can be considered careless or dangerous driving. Police may pull over vehicles perceived as travelling unnecessarily or dangerously slowly and issue penalties.
Consequences and Enforcement
The penalties for these offences are substantial. Drivers risk receiving three points on their licence and a £100 fine for middle-lane hogging or inappropriate slow driving.
Police forces are increasingly focusing on these behaviours that contribute significantly to congestion and safety hazards. Sitting in the middle lane forces other vehicles to repeatedly lane-change, creating unnecessary traffic disruption and potential accident risks.
The fundamental rule remains: drivers should always keep to the inside lane unless overtaking slower vehicles or avoiding hazards. This simple practice helps maintain smooth traffic flow and reduces collision risks.
With thousands of drivers already caught by variable speed cameras and increased police vigilance for lane discipline offences, motorists are urged to refresh their knowledge of motorway regulations to avoid unexpected penalties.
