The one time you should always drive in the middle lane

Wet weather brings a number of hazards and motorists must take extra care to stay safe on the roads. The problem is, drivers who stick to - or hog - the middle lane encourage surrounding motorists to undertake them which then disturbs the momentum of traffic. But, in very wet conditions, some experts say it can be safer.

The team at BigWantsYourCar.com[1] say: "Water often collects in the outer lanes of the road and this creates a greater chance of aquaplaning. By staying in the middle lane where possible, drivers reduce the likelihood of hitting deep water and losing control of their car." Aquaplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between the tyres and the road surface, removing grip entirely.

When this happens, steering can become unresponsive and even a straight road can become dangerous. They added: "Large puddles and standing water can also conceal hidden hazards such as potholes. Hitting these at speed can cause damage to your car or lead to a sudden loss of control.

Slowing down before driving through any large patches of water is the safest approach and staying central in your lane reduces the risk of encountering these hazards." The autumn months mean wetter mornings and darker evenings, making conditions even more challenging. Experts warn that drivers should be particularly careful when water levels rise after heavy downpours.

They concluded: "If you notice your steering suddenly feel light or your car begins to drift, you may be aquaplaning. Ease off the accelerator and avoid making any sudden movements with the steering wheel. Staying in the middle lane during heavy rain is a simple precaution that could make all the difference."

But, in other conditions, motorists who hog the middle lane could be faced with a hefty fine or points on their licence. According to a survey carried-out by National Highways, a whopping 32% of drivers admit to middle lane hogging at least "occasionally", 5% stated they "always" do it.

What does the Highway Code say about driving in - or hogging - the middle lane?

"The Highway Code states, you should always keep in the left-most lane on the motorway unless overtaking," says Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing[2], "Some motorists who sit in the middle lane might take the view that they're somehow 'safer' there than they are in the left-most lane, where they'll encounter other vehicles trying to join the motorway.

"But doing so significantly reduces the capacity of the highway while also increasing the risk of other dangerous behaviours, like undertaking. "And if you hog the middle lane because you're perhaps nervous about being on the motorway in the first place, then further driving training is an absolute must." Recommended reading

How to deal with middle-lane hoggers on the motorway

Dealing with middle-lane hoggers can be stressful.

Below, Graham provides the most appropriate ways for drivers to deal with these reckless habits, to avoid feeling stressed or anxious the next time it occurs:

1. Stay patient It's important to remain patient if you encounter a middle-lane hogger and avoid aggressive behaviour, such as flashing your headlights, sounding your horn, or tailgating, as these may escalate the situation and increase the risk of an accident.

2. Maintain a safe speed Ensure you are driving at a safe and legal speed for the road you are on.

And remember that driving too slowly for the road you're using can also see you being prosecuted for 'careless driving'.

3. Don't undertake As tempting as it might be, you risk prosecution for careless driving or driving without due care and attention if you undertake a middle lane hogger on the motorway.

You'll typically be hit with a GBP100 fine and three points on your licence.

4. Stay calm Don't give in to road rage.

Encountering drivers who hog the middle can be incredibly frustrating but remember that your safety is what's most important, not trying to 'score points' against other road users.

References

1. ^ BigWantsYourCar.com (bigwantsyourcar.com)
2. ^ Select Car Leasing (www.selectcarleasing.co.uk)