Are you a middle-lane hogger?

Middle lane hogging is where a vehicle continues to drive in one of the middle lanes on a motorway unnecessarily. Not only does this cause congestion on the motorways, it is illegal! We suspect that many people don’t even realise they are doing it as the rules on middle lane hogging are open to driver interpretation.

As explained above there are some legitimate reasons for staying in the middle lane. Below are some examples of reasons that may be considered legitimate for driving in the middle lane after overtaking a vehicle:

1. To overtake more vehicles in the left lane;
2. To keep in the lane when specifically told to do so by road signs on smart motorways;
3. To let the traffic merge onto the road when approaching a slip road joining the motorway; and
4. To give room to stranded cars on the hard shoulder.

Yes, you must not unnecessarily drive in the middle lane and if you do it could amount to an offence of careless driving. The offence is committed when your standard of driving falls below the standard of a competent and careful driver. A breach of the Highway Code can amount to this offence where there is sufficient evidence.

New measures were introduced in 2013 to tackle this issue by increasing the powers of the police to issue fixed penalty notices for less serious careless driving offences which included middle lane-hogging and tailgating

The police have the power to issue a fixed penalty notice of 3 penalty points and a fine of £100. They can also offer driver improvement courses as an alternative to prosecution. This is normally offered where there has been no collision but there is sufficient evidence to prosecute the driver for careless driving. The length of the courses vary but are usually up to half a day and the cost is between £70 to £120.

If you reject the offer of a fixed penalty or participation in a course, the matter will go to court and you will be at risk of being convicted for careless driving and potentially higher penalties. The court can impose an unlimited fine and 3-9 points on your licence for careless driving depending on the severity of the offence. Alternatively, they can even disqualify you from driving!

If you have found yourself with a charge for middle-lane hogging, then please contact our specialist motoring team for further advice and representation.