Motorists could face an immediate £100 fine and penalty points on their licence for failing to comply with a crucial Highway Code rule. Many drivers may be entirely unaware of its existence, and experts caution that it could catch thousands off guard each year.
Highway Code Rule 274: What drivers must know
The warning centres on Highway Code Rule 274, which outlines what motorists must do when their vehicle breaks down. The rule emphasises that drivers should prioritise safety and visibility to prevent further danger to themselves and others. This includes ensuring one particular item is readily available in the car.
According to the official Highway Code, drivers should make themselves visible by wearing light-coloured or fluorescent clothing during daylight, and reflective clothing at night or in poor visibility. Failing to adhere to these safety requirements, particularly on smart motorways where hard shoulders can become live driving lanes, can result in fines and penalty points under road traffic regulations.
Breakdown statistics highlight the risk
Breakdowns are far from uncommon on UK roads, with hundreds of thousands occurring annually. Around 282,949 incidents were recorded on England's motorways alone in 2024, alongside tens of thousands more on A-roads and millions of roadside call-outs every year, according to National Highways. This suggests a considerable number of drivers could be unwittingly placing themselves at risk, both physically and financially.
The Highway Code also recommends that motorists activate hazard lights, relocate their vehicle off the road where feasible, and position a warning triangle at least 45 metres behind the vehicle on non-motorway roads. Such measures are crucial to warn other drivers and minimise the risk of collisions.
Additional motorway guidance
Further motorway guidance states that drivers should leave the vehicle safely and stand well clear of traffic, preferably behind a safety barrier. Wearing high-visibility clothing is strongly advised to ensure you remain visible to other road users. Experts also emphasise that drivers should never attempt vehicle repairs on a live carriageway, and should contact professional assistance as soon as possible.
With smart motorways and high-speed roads becoming increasingly prevalent, adhering to breakdown rules has never been more critical. Disregarding them could not only result in drivers receiving a fine, but also place lives at serious risk.
