Guide to Motorways: Outside Lane Restrictions

It is an offence to drive a vehicle in the outside lane of a motorway which is:

  • towing a trailer; or
  • a goods vehicle with a maximum laden weight exceeding 7.5 tonnes; or
  • a goods vehicle between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes without a speedlimiter being fitted; or
  • a passenger vehicle which can carry 8 or more passengers with a maximum laden weight exceeding 7.5 tonnes; or
  • a passenger vehicle which can carry 8 or more passengers with a maximum laden weight between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes without a speedlimiter being fitted.

Do I need an NIP (Notice of Intended Prosecution) for offences relating to driving in the outside lane of a motorway?

No, there is not a requirement for an NIP for offences relating to driving in the outside lane of a motorway.

Punishment

Fine up to £2,500 and 3 points or discretionary disqualification from driving.

Defences

Any Defence in this area usually turns on the particular facts and interpretation of the law. There are certain exceptions for passing extremely wide vehicles, or if you are in the outside lane to avoid the danger of injury to other road users. Do not just accept it if it is alleged that you have driven in the outside lane of a motorway illegally as there may be an exception to the rules which applies to your situation. If you face an allegation of a motorway related offence, we advise you contact us to take specialist legal advice.

Disclaimer The contents of these pages are provided as an information guide only and are limited to offences committed in England and Wales. No responsibility is accepted for any errors, omissions, or misleading statements on these pages or any site to which these pages connect, including any feature or aspect of such site or pages, whether provided by Motor Defence Solicitors or by any organisation, company or individual. No mention of any organisation, company or individual, whether on these pages or on other sites to which these pages are linked shall imply any approval or warranty as to the standing and capability of any such organisations, company or individual on the part of Motor Defence Solicitors.