On May 6th, the world’s fifth and sixth largest economies came together in what was described as a ‘historic’ moment for the two nations – concluding on a landmark trade deal which is expected to increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion and UK GDP by £4.8 billion per year in the long-term.

In 2024, total trade between the UK and India was worth £42.6 billion, with the UK exporting £17.1 billion in goods and services and importing £25.5 billion.

The free trade agreement contains cuts to tariffs which will make it easier for UK businesses to export to India and make imports from India cheaper for UK consumers.

Once the UK-India Free Trade Agreement comes into full effect, which is expected to take around a year, businesses on both sides are poised to benefit from significant tariff reductions and greater market access.

The agreement will eliminate tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the UK and reduces tariffs on 90% of UK goods exported to India, with most becoming tariff-free within a decade.

This also includes significant cuts on automotive goods, with tariffs reduced from 100% to 10%. Sectors such as the footwear, apparel and textiles, along with food and drink, additionally stand to benefit.

Under the UK-India Free Trade Agreement, the UK will eliminate tariffs on 99% of Indian exports, including footwear, which currently face tariffs ranging from 4% to 16%.

This means Indian footwear imports into the UK are expected to become duty-free, benefiting both exporters and UK consumers.

Conversely, India will reduce tariffs on UK whisky and gin from the current 150% to 75% upon the agreement’s implementation, with a further reduction to 40% by the tenth year of the deal. These reductions aim to enhance market access for UK spirits in India, the world’s largest whisky market by volume.

The deal will also help British companies compete for more service contracts in India.

According to Mirza Baig at LTS Global Solutions, the landmark free trade agreement marks a significant milestone in the UK’s history, opening up new opportunities for businesses across a variety of sectors to expand and strengthen their presence in one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.

He also reminds firms that in order to seize the opportunities available, putting proactive steps in place to ensure a full understanding of the specific tariff reductions and implementing a robust cross border strategy will be critical in the months ahead.

Mirza commented: “Forecasts indicate that India’s GDP is projected to rise from $13.2 trillion in 2040 to $22.2 trillion in 2050, making it one of the world’s most dynamic and fastest-growing economies and as such the removal of tariff and non-tariff barriers under this agreement creates enormous potential for both UK and Indian firms which now have greater freedom to expand their customer bases while also making it easier for them to operate across borders. 

“However, to capitalise on these tariffs firms need to prepare accordingly to ensure their goods can move swiftly and efficiently across borders once the agreement takes full effect. The key to unlocking the benefits of this deal lies not just in having great products or services, but in ensuring the right infrastructure is in place to deliver them reliably to customers across India. The same also applies to Indian companies looking to engage in trade with the UK.

“Reduced tariffs also create strategic opportunities for UK firms to reduce their dependence on any one region or country-specific supply chain and keep trade flowing in the event of more US tariff shocks, for instance, or any other socio-economic or geopolitical issues. The new trade deal essentially offers a route for firms to redesign supply chains by tapping into India’s manufacturing strength and growing consumer base, while also diversifying risk.”

The new trade deal comes at a poignant time for LTS Global Solutions which earlier this year opened a regional hub in New Delhi as a part of a wider international expansion strategy.

The company’s regional presence supports its operations across the subcontinent by working with a trusted network of partners. This setup enables LTS to provide seamless logistics and freight forwarding services for both existing and new customers, enabling the seamless movement of goods to or from India back to the UK.

As such, LTS will be well placed to leverage its established UK and Indian networks to provide end-to-end ocean, air, and overland supply-chain solutions with faster clearance and reduced barriers over the coming years, while also guiding businesses through new customs procedures and documentation requirements introduced under the FTA.

Mirza continued: “The UK and India share deep-rooted historical ties and the new UK-India Free Trade Agreement signals a new chapter in this relationship, one which opens up a myriad of opportunities to businesses situated in both nations.  

“We’ve long identified the country as a key growth market which is why we’ve taken it upon ourselves to make the decision to invest into a regional hub that puts us in excellent stead to facilitate smoother cross-border operations for customers and build a localised network to help provide tailored logistics solutions for businesses on a global scale.  

“Through having this network and infrastructure in place, it’s exciting that we have a real opportunity to help support businesses reap the rewards from this groundbreaking free trade agreement by streamlining the end-to-end logistics process and helping to navigate the changes in the most efficient way possible on their behalf.”

Dave Hands, Managing Director of LTS, is calling on Sir Kier Starmer and his Ministers to address six key priority campaign areas outlined by the Road Haulage Association in its manifesto to improve conditions in the industry.

Boosting driver welfare and supporting diversity, improved infrastructure, strengthening trade with Europe, support for SMEs, Net Zero and addressing the skills shortages are the key challenges faced by transport operators across the country like LTS Global Solutions.

Dave Hands praised the RHA for highlighting the focus areas and would like to see the government act swiftly to bring about the tangible changes needed by the industry following several challenging years.

“Transport and logistics is a highly skilled, service-driven industry which forms the very lifeblood of the UK but the industry has come up against too many unprecedented challenges in recent years and is still reeling from the effects,” Dave said. 

“The RHA and companies such as LTS are willing to work closely with the government to bring about much needed change, putting UK road haulage back on an even keel and setting foundations to help the industry continue moving forward in the years to come.”

LTS Global Solutions was recently visited by Rachel Taylor ahead of her success on July 4th which saw her elected as the new MP for Bedworth and North Warwickshire.

During the visit Ms Taylor met with representatives from the RHA who called for more government support for operators facing challenges such as the cost burden on reaching Net Zero, bridging the skills gaps in their organisations, tackling freight crime and navigating the UK’s road infrastructure and overall road safety.

Dave Hands added: “A change in government brings a fresh opportunity for the RHA, transport operators and Ministers to collaborate to bring about real change and improvement for the benefit of all.

“With almost 500 hauliers going out of business in 2023 alone it is vital for all sides to come together now, to help the industry turn a corner and improve its prospects for the future.”

Rachel Taylor was selected as the Labour PPC for North Warwickshire and Bedworth in December 2023 and is one of five competing for the seat in the General Election on July 4^th.

The visit was organised by the Road Haulage Association as part of their Manifesto for Road Haulage which focuses on six key priority campaign areas including addressing skill shortages, net zero, support for small and medium enterprises, boosting driver welfare and supporting diversity, strengthening trade with Europe and connecting towns and cities.

All points were discussed on the day including rising fuel and insurance costs.

During her visit Rachel Taylor had a full tour of the site and had an opportunity to meet with members of the team as well as have a ride in LTS Global Solutions electric truck – a recent addition to its fleet as the company looks to drive forward its sustainability goals.

LTS Global Solutions, is a leading logistics and supply chain management company and operates from its state of the art 133,000 sq ft Logistics Centre of Excellence facility at Prologis Park based at Hams Hall. 

Established in 1999 and undergoing a successful management buyout in 2020, the company has an impressive pedigree and prides itself on delivering end-to-end transport, logistics and supply chain solutions to its customers.

LTS Global Solutions has continued to go from strength to strength and today operates a modern fleet comprising more than 60 vehicles through to 44 tonnes all of which are Euro 6 compliant. 

Additionally, the forward-thinking company has taken a robust and data-led approach to reducing its operational carbon footprint and partnered with internationally recognised carbon reduction and net zero specialists Planet Mark and has achieved Planet Mark Business Certification – which certifies and recognises progress in reducing carbon emissions across Scopes 1, 2 and core elements of Scope 3.

To promote the partnership between the two businesses, LTS Global Solutions’ new Volvo FM Electric truck is liveried in LTS’ brand colours, along with the Planet Mark logo.  Additionally, to reinforce its message, the vehicle is proudly emblazoned with the words ‘I’m Electric’.

Furthermore, recognising its people are at the core of its ongoing success story, LTS has introduced an impressive range of employee benefits which include an onsite gym, employee assistance programme including GP services for both employees and family members, sponsored training programmes, employee pension and an employee benefits programme which won the praise of Rachel.

Dave Hands, Managing Director, LTS Global Solutions commented: “We are delighted that the RHA is championing our cause and were particularly pleased to have the opportunity to to host  Rachel on her recent visit and showcase our impressive facility. 

“In recent years, the transport and logistics industry has undergone one of its most volatile periods with Brexit, the pandemic, current geopolitical situation coupled with driver shortages and fuel and energy costs.  It has been a tough time, and it is important that these challenges are brought to the attention of the government.”

Rachel Taylor commented: “It is wonderful to have businesses like LTS Global Solutions in North Warwickshire and to learn more about the challenges being faced.  I hope, if I am elected, I will be a strong voice for the sector.

“What really shone through from my visit was how much LTS cares about the levels of service provided to customers but also employee welfare and the future success of the business and the sector in general.

“In every area of LTS there was a sense of people pulling together and being happy in their work which is a credit to your company values.  It was also an added bonus to take a ride in the electric HGV!”

Ferdy Willans, Public Affairs Manager at the RHA added: “Now more than ever with road haulage and storage operators struggling with rising costs, the transition to Net Zero and skills shortages, it is crucial that candidates engage with the local businesses that keeps the economy on the road to success.

It was a pleasure to welcome Rachel to LTS to show her the work that Dave and Rachel do locally, and globally to promote the West Midlands. We look forward to continuing to work with Rachel who is a strong voice for the region if she is elected next week.”

Diversity and Inclusion:

 One of the most significant strengths that women bring to the logistics sector is diversity. The inclusion of women in the workforce adds different perspectives, problem-solving approaches, and creative ideas. Diverse teams are known to be more innovative and better equipped to address the complexities of the supply chain.

Effective Communication:

Women often excel in communication skills, a critical aspect in the logistics field. Clear communication is vital for the seamless flow of information across the supply chain. Women’s ability to articulate ideas, negotiate effectively, and build strong relationships with stakeholders contributes to the overall efficiency of logistics operations.

Attention to Detail:

The logistics industry demands meticulous attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of shipments, inventory management, and overall supply chain operations. Women are known for their attention to detail and organisational skills, making them well-suited for roles that require precision and accuracy.

Adaptability and Multitasking:

Logistics is a fast-paced industry with constantly changing dynamics. Women exhibit remarkable adaptability and multitasking abilities, allowing them to navigate through challenges and manage multiple responsibilities efficiently. This adaptability is a significant asset in an industry where unforeseen circumstances and rapid changes are common.

Customer-Centric Approach:

Women often bring a customer-centric mindset to logistics operations. With a keen understanding of customer needs and preferences, they contribute to creating logistics solutions that prioritise customer satisfaction. This focus on customer experience is instrumental in building long-term relationships and enhancing the reputation of logistics companies.

Leadership and Collaboration:

The logistics sector benefits from the leadership qualities that many women naturally possess. Women are effective collaborators and team players, fostering a positive work environment. Their inclusive leadership styles contribute to building strong, motivated teams that can successfully navigate the challenges of the logistics industry.

Promoting Gender Equality:

Having women in key roles within the logistics sector not only brings individual strengths but also helps break down gender stereotypes and promotes gender equality. This sends a positive message to the industry, encouraging more women to pursue careers in logistics and creating a more inclusive workplace culture.

Over the last six months, LTS Global Solutions has increased its female employees by 120% in a variety of new roles including; warehouse operative, class 2 driver, multimodal operator, transport planner, fleet compliance and business support manager.

We asked our Directors, what qualities they thought our female employees brought to LTS Global Solutions and the wider logistics industry…

Conclusion:

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it is crucial to recognise and appreciate the strengths that women bring to the logistics industry. Their diverse perspectives, communication skills, attention to detail, adaptability, and customer-centric approach contribute significantly to the success and growth of the supply chain. Embracing and promoting gender diversity in logistics is not just a celebration of women’s achievements but also a strategic move towards building stronger, more resilient, and innovative logistics practices for the future and one that we are proud to be a part of.

Digital Transformation

Digital systems have been important in logistics and shipping for some time, yet the technology continues to evolve. From advanced route planning software to real-time tracking systems, digital solutions are transforming the way goods are managed. Embracing digital systems not only enhances a business’s reputation through providing transparency, but it also streamlines operations and improves efficiency.

E-commerce Boom

Today, more people shop online than ever before, and this continues to shape the logistics and shipping industry. For example, the demand for fast and reliable delivery services has increased the need for strategically located fulfilment centres. For logistics companies, adapting to the demands of e-commerce means investing in solutions to meet customer expectations, such as optimising last-mile delivery.

Sustainable Practices

There has always been discussion around the effects of logistics and shipping on the environment. With environment and climate change at centre stage, sustainability is no longer just a buzzword. From reducing carbon emissions to minimising packaging waste, adopting eco-friendly practices across the supply chain is critical. This includes investing in fuel-efficient vehicles, exploring alternative fuels, and implementing recycling programs. By embracing sustainability, logistics companies not only contribute to a greener planet but also enhance their brand reputation and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

Automation and Robotics

Automation is a key development that is reshaping the logistics landscape, from warehouse operations to delivery processes. Robotics technologies such as automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and drones are increasingly being used to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and reduce labour costs. Automated warehouses equipped with robotic picking systems can significantly increase order fulfilment speed and accuracy, while increasing customer satisfaction in the process.

Supply Chain Resilience

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities in global supply chains, highlighting the importance of adaptability. In response, logistics companies are investing in contingency plans to mitigate future disruptions. This includes using data analytics to foresee fluctuations in demand, building flexible logistics networks, and establishing robust communication channels with suppliers and partners.

Blockchain Technology

Blockchain is a digital, public leger that is used across a network, and it holds promise for enhancing transparency and security in logistics and shipping. By providing a decentralised and immutable ledger, blockchain enables better traceability of goods throughout the supply chain. This can help prevent fraud, reduce paperwork, and streamline customs clearance processes. While still in its early stages of adoption, blockchain has the potential to revolutionise how logistics companies track and manage shipments.

The logistics and shipping industry is undergoing a period of rapid transformation, driven by technological advancements, changing consumer behaviours, and global challenges. As a leading UK logistics company, we recognise the importance of embracing these trends to deliver innovative solutions and exceed customer expectations. For expert advice on all your shipping and logistical needs, feel free to contact our team.

At LTS, our objective is to design and deliver total logistics and transport solutions developed to match your requirements. LTS Global Solutions has its headquarters in Birmingham along with a strong representation across all major Oceans and Airports in Europe, China, Southeast Asia, the Indian Sub-Continent, Australasia, USA and Canada. We offer a comprehensive range of UK and end to end international logistics and supply chain solutions.

Just when you thought it might be safe to go back in the water, 2022 brings a whole raft of new regulations that the transport industry has to get its collective head around.

February’s new challenge

From 2 February 2022, there are yet more new rules about transporting goods to or through Europe. As part of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, these don’t just impact HGV traffic – they affect cars, trailers and vans too.

The new rules mean that from 2 February, you might need to pre-register some journeys within Europe using an online service – take a look at:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/register-road-haulage-journeys-within-europe-from-2-february-2022

and another for May…

And there’s even more, with effect from 21st May 2022 – affecting transport companies and couriers using vans and trailers over 2.5 tonnes to transport goods in and out of the UK. More succinct advice is available here:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/carry-out-international-road-haulage

While we’re still reeling, consulting the internet and getting everything in place for the new regulations, we have to think about making sure our drivers are eligible to drive abroad and that they always carry the right documentation.

Alongside all the things you’d expect – a valid UK driving licence, passport and Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card, we have to make sure our drivers carry international driving permits (IDP) for certain countries, as well as healthcare documents.

Cabotage too

And don’t even get us started on cabotage! ‘To help alleviate pressures in the supply chain associated with the current shortage of HGV drivers, from 28 October 2021 until 30 April 2022 the Government temporarily extended limits on road haulage cabotage, which our industry – alongside leading UK trade unions –  always believed could affect the safety of all road users.

The challenges keep coming – but we’re managing to keep goods on the move, too. Next time you’re on the motorway and bemoaning the amount of freight on the roads, remember we might just be carrying something you really need!

This demand both in and on the transport industry means that there has never been a better time to become a HGV driver and to enjoy the benefits of the profession. If you have been considering a career as a HGV driver, here are some of the advantages.

Salary

Lorry drivers are in demand, and that means salaries have increased. An average HGV 2 driver may earn around £38K* per year, while those who have their Class 1 licence and been in the profession for longer will earn more.

Plenty of work

The shortage of HGV drivers in the UK means that many haulage companies are looking to take on new staff. This means you will never be short of work and have your pick of companies to drive for. Need extra money? There are plenty of opportunities to work overtime and nights out, with many like LTS paying allowances and bonuses. HGV drivers are in demand on a global scale, so no matter where you live you will be able to get a job.

Independence

Some people are not happy working alongside lots of other people. HGV drivers get to decide (in line with the law) when they drive, take breaks, eat, or sleep, without having anyone else telling them to do so. For those lone wolves out there, being a lorry driver gives you solitude and independence that you don’t often get in other jobs.

See the world

As well as driving all over the UK, many HGV drivers can take on work in other countries, particularly throughout Europe. This means that you get to experience other countries, cities, countryside and meet new people. Not many other jobs can offer that.

Quick to get your license

With the Government creating more capacity, driver training and gaining your HGV licence can take as little as two months. That means you can be on the road and earning quickly. Although you may need to pay for training, there are often grants and subsidies that are available, depending on your situation. There are companies like LTS who will take on apprentice drivers and put them through their HGV training or train current Class 2 drivers up to become Class 1.

There is the ongoing driver CPC to maintain, some companies expect you to fund and do this yourself, but we fund and plan in 2 days a year for driver CPC training, it is always a great way to bring our drivers together and the last one we had plenty of laughs when riding bikes around Birmingham.

As an industry, there is still lots more to do to encourage drivers in. It does take a special kind of person to enjoy being a HGV driver, but those who do often can’t imagine doing another job. Yes, there may be long hours on the road, but many find that time to themselves valuable. Waking up each day in a new place, seeing new things, meeting new people and managing your own time is appealing, as is being well paid to do it. We know it’s not always about the money, it’s about being appreciated by the company your work for and those customers you work with.

At LTS, we have a long history in the haulage industry and pride ourselves on our drivers, our range of global logistics and transport services. We offer comprehensive haulage services in the UK, Europe and Scandinavia, and have a robust network of partnerships that enable us to deliver the high standards we are known for.

We are currently looking for HGV drivers to join our team, so check out our vacancies and get in touch!

There are a number of key factors which have led to the current crisis. This includes the Brexit effect, the departure of European Union drivers and the very real fact that the pandemic has hampered driver training and access to driving tests.

However, the shortage of professional drivers is not a new or sudden effect. It has been an issue for the road haulage industry for many years, caused by a combination of systemic problems including pay, conditions and the image of the industry.

So where are we now?

The last few days have highlighted the severity of the situation, with queues at petrol stations and empty shelves in the supermarkets.

Whilst the former can be attributed to panic buying – there is no shortage of fuel in this country – the core message remains the same. Everything we buy involves a road journey somewhere in its supply chain. We are woefully short of qualified professionals to deliver that link.

And thereby hangs the tale. The very image of the job itself needs to be upgraded. We need to work to improve the whole image of the industry, to attract more people. Including many more women (only 1% of truck drivers are female) – to look at driving as a career. That requires a sustained effort and investment in both facilities and awareness.

Poor facilities for drivers hinders recruitment

This brings us to suitable facilities on the road. The lack of appropriate clean shower and toilet facilities, the lack and often high costs cost of suitable safe parking and rest areas present real problems for drivers whose cabs can be their homes for the working week.

This impacts significantly on the attraction of driving as a career choice. There isn’t a quick fix, but maybe the current crisis will result in improved pay and conditions for those men and women who work day and night to ensure the rest of us have access to the goods and services we need to manage our own lives.

As the situation continues to evolve and the UK becomes more affected, LTS Global Solutions is prepared for keeping supplies moving – especially for high priority items such as food, medicines and protective clothing.

We are carefully monitoring the evolving situation around the spreading of the Corona COVID-19 and remain committed to mitigating any potential impact on the supply chains and operations of our customers. To this end, we have established several preventive measures to safeguard the health and well-being of our customers, suppliers, other business partners and ourselves but maintain our services to you as our customer as optimally as possible within the set governmental guidelines.

So far, LTS has prescribed preventative rules for all employees with regard to personal hygiene, stopping visitors to our locations, instructions for visiting drivers and health declarations of employees visiting customers and/or suppliers. In addition, all employees are extensively informed how to handle any health complaints that may be related to the Corona COVID-19 virus. All measures are communicated to all employees in emails and memos.

In accordance with the national measures taken by the UK government as well as guidance from the RHA and BIFA, the following measures are effective today for everyone within LTS. The directors and operations managers of all departments have each made a Business Continuity Plan.

The starting point in each plan is to determine who is present at our location and when, so that our service and services to you as our customer can continue as optimally as possible within the set guidelines. In order to spread risks and increase prevention of Corona COVID-19 as much as possible, they will, until further notice, indicate for each team who works at the office and who works at home, whether or not there will be shift work, how the breaks will be arranged, etc.

In addition, all appointments with external parties at offices and / or location of the external party are immediately cancelled or moved to video call. This also means that we immediately no longer have conversations with applicants, visit or invite suppliers etc. Depending on changes in national measures, the decisions taken are adjusted and implemented as required.

At LTS, we understand our customers’ concerns and will follow the guidelines provided concerning pick-up, handling and delivery of goods, where possible. These extraordinary circumstances, which are completely beyond our control, may result in us not being able to meet agreed KPIs, SLAs, lead times or to transport booked shipments, as well as causing or having caused unexpected additional costs, incurred on our customers’ behalf and which we are obliged to pass on. To avoid possible additional costs, we advise you to check your loading and unloading locations for accessibility before you book a shipment or delivery.

LTS Global Solutions are working proactively with our customers to understand their transport and logistic requirements for the coming weeks and to map these against available capacities.

If you foresee significantly increased shipping and transportation needs in the coming weeks, we encourage you to contact your dedicated team who will assist you with the necessary planning and preparations.

We will continue to monitor the situation closely and to ensure that our employees and customers are provided with the necessary information, and that actions required are taken.

We would like to thank you for enabling us to support you through these difficult times and hope that you, your families and colleagues stay safe.

Dave Hands

Managing Director

LTS Global Solutions

However, there are many more miles of smart motorway to come. A £1.5 billion investment in smart motorways back in 2015 means there are now multiple projects underway to turn Britain’s roads smart.

So what are smart motorways, how do they work and, most importantly, are they safe to travel on? If you’re feeling confused by all the technical jargon then you’ve come to the right place.

Read on to find out everything you need to know about smart motorways in the UK and how to travel on them safely. 

What are Smart Motorways? 

First things first: what is a smart motorway? Smart motorways are roads that use smart traffic management. The idea behind them is that this can be used to improve driving times, road conditions and the environmental impact of driving. 

They aim to increase the number of cars on the road without increasing congestion. To do this, smart motorways use variable speed limits to control traffic as it passes along them.

They have also ditched the hard shoulder and replaced it with something called the ‘running lane’. This creates more space on the road for cars. Different smart motorways use running lanes differently.

Different Types of Smart Motorway

There are three main types of smart motorways. Each of these uses the hard shoulder or running lane in a different way.

An ‘all lane running’ motorway uses the hard shoulder as an additional lane for traffic unless an incident occurs. In this way, a four-lane motorway can become a five-lane motorway and so on.

This running lane often has a slower speed limit in case it is needed urgently. In an emergency, signage on the motorway will indicate that drivers should keep the running lane clear.

‘Dynamic hard shoulder’ smart motorways allow more flexibility when it comes to the hard shoulder. These roads open the hard shoulder up as a running lane at peak travel times. This helps to reduce congestion when there are lots of cars on the road. 

Some smart motorways use their hard shoulder like normal motorways, keeping it free to use in an emergency. Instead, these ‘controlled motorways’ just use variable speed limits to control traffic. 

In order to travel safely on a smart motorway, it’s vital that drivers pay attention to road signage as this can change regularly. For example, a red X over the hard shoulder on all lane and dynamic hard shoulder roads means drivers should clear the running lane immediately. Missing this sign or ignoring it could put drivers at serious risk. 

So how safe are smart motorways to travel on? 

Are Smart Motorways Safe? 

A lot of people have their reservations about travelling on smart motorways. This is mainly due to the lack of a hard shoulder on the road. 

The hard shoulder on a motorway provides cars with somewhere to pull over in an emergency so they aren’t stuck on the road. It also is a vital access route for emergency vehicles. This is why 68% of people feel that removing this from the road makes smart motorways more dangerous. 

On top of this, if people aren’t properly educated about when to use the running lane, this puts drivers at risk. For example, a driver in the running lane during a traffic incident could cause a further crash with emergency vehicles. Drivers who have pulled up on the hard shoulder are also at risk if other drivers aren’t aware that they shouldn’t use it as a running lane.

Sign failures or poor signage also puts drivers at risk when using the hard shoulder and when they’re in variable speed limit zones. This puts a lot of pressure on drivers to keep their eye out for changes in signage. Failure to do so, or failure of the technology itself, could result in serious injuries.

Fortunately, so far this risk has resulted in more near-misses than actual collisions on the road. That said, the number of near-misses on smart motorways around the UK is twenty times more than that on regular motorways.

At some point, these higher rates of near misses are going to start turning into higher rates of actual road accidents. This is why safety on smart motorways is currently under review to help improve it. Let’s take a look at some of the measures that have been put in place to keep people safe when travelling on smart motorways so far.

Speeding Fines for Smart Motorways

Like all motorways across the UK, smart motorways have strict fines in place for exceeding speed limits. The idea is that this will incentivise drivers to maintain the proper speed limits on smart motorways. 

These fines can add up to as much as £2,500 and could lead to license suspension or points. Being caught speeding may also lead to you having to take a speed awareness course. 

Specific courses now provide additional training in using smart motorways safely. This aims to prevent drivers from making dangerous mistakes. Repeat offenders may face more severe penalties for their driving.

If you are travelling on a smart motorway and the signage doesn’t display a speed limit you should assume that the national speed limit is in place. This is 70 miles per hour on motorways for standard cars.

Drivers on smart motorways will all be monitored using multiple smart motorway speed cameras along the road. Because there is no hard shoulder this obviously makes police monitoring of the roads more difficult.

Fines for Ignoring Running Lane Signage

Fines are also in place for people who don’t follow the proper running lane signage along the road. These fines will be awarded to anyone who ignores signage purposefully or by accident. 

Camera monitoring of running lanes across the country is on the rise. Anyone who ignores signage will face a fine of £100. They’ll also receive three penalty points on their license.

Emergency Refuge Areas (ERAs)

Smart motorway fines aren’t the only way that the government is trying to increase safety on smart motorways around the country. They’re also trying to make all drivers safer by offering them an alternative place to stop in case of an emergency. This is where emergency refuge areas, ERAs, or SOS areas come in. 

These are places that you’ll find along the road on a motorway and they provide a safe place for drivers to pull over in an emergency. Every smart motorway has an ERA every 1.5 miles, although this could be improved by shortening this gap. Newer smart motorways designs leave a gap of no more than one mile between each ERA. 

These areas are clearly signposted along the road using blue and orange signage. There should also be regular signage along the motorways to indicate to drivers how far they are from the nearest ERA.

Once you arrive in one of these spots you should put your hazard lights on, get out of your car, and stand behind the crash barrier. Each emergency refuge area has an SOS phone that is free for people to use in order to call for help. It’s important that people only use these areas in emergencies rather than for leisure breaks. 

Unfortunately, a lot of drivers on the smart motorways are not aware of these areas as a place of refuge in an emergency. In fact, 25% of UK drivers admitted that they were unaware of this facility. In order to properly keep drivers safe on the road, it is extremely important that drivers are educated about these safety measures.

Safety Benefits of Smart Motorways 

With all of these problematic elements of smart motorways, you might be wondering why would anyone use them? And why is there such a push for more smart motorways in the UK? 

Well, in spite of the dangers, there are some safety benefits to driving on smart motorways. Ideally, once the other safety issues are resolved this will make them the safest roads to drive on the in Britain. 

Because smart motorways reduce congestion on the roads, they significantly improve journey times. They also make routes more reliable. This leads to an increase in the quality of people’s driving on the road. 

It means that fewer people are rushing to get from A to B and increases the likelihood of people taking a break from driving. This means that there are fewer reckless and fatigued drivers on the road. As a result, smart motorways can help to cut out a huge cause of motorway accidents across the UK.

The Bottom Line 

Now you know how to answer the question ‘what are smart motorways?’ As you can tell, these ingenious roads are far from perfect and there are still a lot of safety issues to review before they reach their full potential. The great news is that, once they do these could revolutionise travel in the UK.

For more tips on travelling safely on Britain’s roads, check out the rest of our blog!