How to Rejoin the Motorway Safely After a Breakdown

Car stopped on a UK motorway hard shoulder beside passing traffic – advice on safely rejoining the motorway from SLK Recovery.

After a motorway breakdown, getting your vehicle moving again is only part of the journey. Rejoining fast-moving traffic needs care, and the procedure differs depending on whether you have stopped on a hard shoulder or in an emergency area.

SLK Recovery provides 24-hour breakdown recovery around Huddersfield, Brighouse, Elland and the M62. Here is what drivers should know before continuing their journey.

Before continuing your journey

Only continue if your vehicle is safe to drive. Restarting the engine does not necessarily mean the original fault has been resolved.

If you are unsure, speak to your breakdown operator before attempting to move. Follow any directions given by police or traffic officers.

Rejoining from a hard shoulder

Check ahead for stopped vehicles, debris or other obstructions. When it is safe to proceed, build up speed on the hard shoulder, signal your intention to rejoin and look for a suitable gap in the traffic.

Check your mirrors and blind spot carefully. Only move into the left-hand traffic lane when it is safe, allowing for the speed and position of approaching vehicles. Do not assume another driver will move over for you.

Rejoining from an emergency area

You must use the emergency telephone provided and follow the operator’s instructions before leaving an emergency area.

Even if your vehicle is running again, do not simply pull out. National Highways may need to close a lane to help you leave safely.

An emergency area is different from a continuous hard shoulder: do not treat it as an acceleration lane.

Still unsure whether it is safe to drive?

If the fault remains or you are uncertain about continuing, contact your breakdown provider to arrange assistance.

If you are stranded in a live lane and cannot get to safety, stay belted in, switch on your hazard warning lights and call 999 immediately.

Need recovery on the M62?

SLK Recovery is a family-run husband-and-wife team providing 24-hour vehicle recovery across Huddersfield, Brighouse, Elland and the surrounding motorway network.

If your vehicle cannot safely continue, contact Simon and Lucy to discuss recovery to your chosen destination.

Call SLK Recovery: 07725 414695

For official guidance, read Highway Code Rule 278.