No hard shoulder to cry on as ‘confused’ drivers misuse new M62

Police have become exasperated that the opening up of sections of the hard shoulder has led to confusion and misuse and officers are warning that fines and points will be imposed.

From yesterday the hard shoulder between junctions 25 (Brighouse) and 26 (Chain Bar) can be used as an additional lane on a permanent basis.

Between junctions 26 and 28 (Tingley), the hard shoulder is already used, but only at peak periods. It is along this section where motorists have been spotted on the hard shoulder.

Highways Agency project manager David Pilsworth said: “Some of the hard shoulder misuse reported to us by police....could be an honest mistake because drivers are under the impression that the hard shoulder is available to traffic at all times.

“However, I suspect there could also be a lot of wilful ignorance – even if motorists aren’t necessarily aware that they are breaking the law.”