The use of hard shoulders for all-lane running on smart motorways across the country is an increasingly common occurrence, as this type of transport infrastructure is rolled out to more and more areas.

However, a new poll of UK motorists carried out by the AA has revealed there remains a significant proportion of the motoring public who are wary of this type of carriageway, as they feel the lack of a safe haven in the event of a breakdown could lead to an increased risk of accidents.

Indeed, almost four-fifths (79 per cent) of respondents to the latest AA-Populus research said that the current lack of lay-bys on many smart motorways (officially termed Emergency Refuge Areas) is a real worry for them.

Responding to the data, AA president Edmund King commented: "If drivers can see the next lay-by, they are much more likely to make it to the relative safety of that area even if their car has a puncture or is overheating. If they can't see the lay-by, they often panic and stop in a live running lane."

In the event that a vehicle does break down while traversing an area of smart motorway without an accessible refuge area, drivers are advised to pull into the left-most lane and park with their hazard lights illuminated. They should remain in their vehicle at all times.

The Department for Transport assures motorists that their lane will quickly be closed to all traffic and rescue vehicles dispatched to get them moving again.

However, Mr King concluded: "If more lay-bys are designed at the planning stage, it will be less expensive and safer."

Brand manager at The Fuelcard People Ben Robb adds: "Extra lay-bys would be a great addition for safety on smart motorways. This would allow for more safe rest areas and emergency pull in places, which would drastically decrease the chances of collisions."