M25 drivers warned on winter breakdown safety
National Highways issues guidance for navigating vehicle failures on busy motorway during colder months.
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National Highways has issued guidance for drivers using the M25, Britain's busiest motorway, as colder weather arrives. The advice aims to ensure the safety of road users during winter breakdowns, which can be more hazardous due to darkness, rain, and icy conditions.
Guidance for breakdowns
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The agency recommends that drivers attempt to leave the motorway at the next available exit or pull into a service area if their vehicle develops a problem. This is considered the safest course of action, provided the vehicle can still be driven safely. If reaching an exit is not possible, drivers should move to the left-hand lane and stop in an emergency area or on the hard shoulder if one is available. Vehicles should be positioned as far left as possible, with wheels turned left and hazard warning lights activated. Sidelights should also be used in poor visibility or darkness.
Once stopped, occupants should exit the vehicle through the doors furthest from moving traffic, if safe to do so, and move behind any safety barrier, remaining well away from the carriageway. Passengers should not stand between the broken-down vehicle and approaching traffic, and drivers should avoid returning to their vehicle after reaching a safe position.
Smart motorway procedures
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For sections of the M25 operating as smart motorways, where a permanent hard shoulder may be absent, National Highways advises using designated emergency areas. These are identified by blue signs with an orange SOS telephone symbol and often have orange-coloured surfacing. If a vehicle breaks down in a live traffic lane and cannot reach a safe stopping place, drivers and passengers are instructed to remain inside with seat belts fastened and hazard lights on. In such situations, drivers must immediately call 999 and ask for the police. Emergency services can then contact National Highways to arrange assistance, potentially including lane closures.
Contacting for assistance
If a vehicle has stopped safely in an emergency area, lay-by, or on the hard shoulder, drivers can use the free emergency telephone or call National Highways on 0300 123 5000 for advice and assistance. They should also contact their breakdown recovery provider. However, if stranded in a live lane or in an unsafe position, the priority is to call 999.
Actions to avoid
Motorists are warned against attempting any repairs while stranded on the motorway or placing a warning triangle on the carriageway. The Highway Code also advises that animals should remain inside the vehicle or be kept under control on the verge if it is safe to exit. Drivers with mobility difficulties or those travelling with children should ensure all occupants remain safe and supervised, ideally behind a barrier if they have exited the vehicle.
Essential winter supplies
National Highways recommends carrying essential supplies for winter travel. These include warm clothing, a high-visibility jacket, a torch, breakdown cover details, food, water, and a fully charged mobile phone. Drivers are also encouraged to check their vehicle's tyres, fuel, lights, and screenwash, and to monitor weather forecasts and traffic conditions before setting off. Additional journey time should be allowed, and non-essential trips considered for postponement during severe weather warnings.
Questions this report answers
+What should I do if my car breaks down on the M25 this winter?
National Highways advises drivers to try to exit the motorway or use a service area if their vehicle develops a fault. If this is not possible, move to the left-hand lane and stop in an emergency area or on the hard shoulder, then exit the vehicle through the doors furthest from traffic and move to a safe position away from the carriageway.
+What is the advice for breaking down on a smart motorway section of the M25?
On smart motorways, use an emergency area if possible. If your vehicle breaks down in a live traffic lane and you cannot reach a safe stopping place, remain inside the vehicle with your seat belt fastened and call 999 immediately to ask for the police.
+What items should I carry in my car for winter journeys on the M25?
National Highways recommends carrying essential winter supplies such as warm clothing, a high-visibility jacket, a torch, breakdown cover details, food, water, and a charged mobile phone. It is also advisable to check your vehicle's tyres, fuel, lights, and screenwash before travelling.
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