Breakdown on a motorway: where to stop and when to use the emergency lane

On a motorway, the emergency lane is reserved for situations allowed by law, such as a breakdown or illness. Make the vehicle visible and reach a lay-by only if it is safe and requires no prohibited manoeuvre.

An emergency stop is different from an ordinary stop

The Highway Code defines an emergency stop as stopping because a vehicle cannot be used due to a breakdown, or because the driver or a passenger is physically unwell. It is not a place to make a phone call, check navigation or wait for someone. On motorways, the emergency lane is reserved for the cases set out by law; it cannot be used to pass a queue or get to an exit sooner.

If a fault occurs, slow down gradually and leave the traffic lane as soon as the situation allows. Use the emergency lane or a lay-by according to the conditions on that section, and continue to the nearest stopping area only if it can be reached safely. Turn on the hazard warning lights and follow article 176 on warning and calling for assistance. Do not cross traffic lanes or reverse to reach a lay-by you have passed.

Make the vehicle visible and keep people safe

Once stopped, use the required warning equipment only if you can do so without exposing yourself to traffic. Wear reflective clothing where required. Move passengers to a protected place away from the carriageway and from doors opening into traffic, and follow instructions from the road operator or emergency services. If the vehicle is stopped in a dangerous place, call for help without walking on the carriageway.

The priority is to keep the traffic lane clear without making a dangerous manoeuvre. For example, if the fault still allows the vehicle to reach a lay-by ahead under control, consider moving there only when that can be done safely. If the vehicle cannot continue, stop in the safest available position and request assistance. Quiz Patente Ufficiale helps you review category B chapters and quizzes, with explanations and error review; it does not provide roadside rescue or replace the road operator’s procedures.

Quiz Patente Ufficiale helps you review category B theory through chapters, quizzes, explanations and error review; it does not provide roadside assistance.