‘Red X’ motorway lane offences: cameras are now live, warns GEM

ROAD SAFETY and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist is warning motorists that as of this week motorway cameras are being used to detect drivers who use lanes with a red x.

A red X tells drivers and riders that a lane is closed and must not be used. The system, which went live on Monday 10 June, allows cameras to record an driver or rider who uses a red x lane. The penalty is £100, with three points on your licence.

GEM road safety officer Neil Worth commented: “Red X signs are often displayed well ahead of motorway incident, as they help ensure that emergency vehicles can reach the incident. Someone might be stranded in that lane, or there may well be emergency or recovery workers assisting at a collision or a breakdown.

“That’s why using a motorway lane with a red X is not only illegal but also very dangerous.”

GEM’s red X tips for staying safe and legal:

Never drive in a lane marked with a red X, as this indicates a lane closure.

If you see a red X sign ahead for the lane you are using, move across to another lane as soon as it’s safe.

The red X can be shown on signs located on the verge of the carriageway or on signs above each lane across the carriageway.