Drivers warned of dangers when ignoring red X signs on motorway networks

Ignoring red X signs on a live motorway poses a risk to those involved in a breakdown or working on the carriageway.

The signs are in place and illuminated for a reason and following a recent incident where roads policing officers were faced with the dangers of drivers ignoring the signs, we are warning motorists.

Roads policing officers recently responded to reports of a broken down vehicle in lane three of a live motorway. The vehicle’s breaks had frozen, and the driver was unable to move the car, posing a significant risk to those travelling on the carriageway.

National Highways put a lane closure in place on lanes three and four to allow officers to travel to the incident.

One roads policing officer witnessed 15 drivers fail to adhere to the signage and captured their details to later issue a traffic offence report.

Roads Policing Inspector Matt Collings said: “Drivers who ignore the restrictions placed on motorways, including lane closures, pose a risk to innocent people and emergency services workers.

“Their lack of patience, and ignorance further delays our work and the re-opening of the lanes or carriageways.

“While at the scene, other abiding drivers expressed their frustration to officers about those failing to adhere and we can assure you that we will take action.”

Since the start of this year (2025) 507 drivers have been issued tickets for contravening a red X sign.

Penalties can carry three licence points and up to a £100 fine.

The end of lane closures will be marked on motorway gantries with ‘end’ or a speed limit sign.

For more information about adhering to Red X signs, please see the Highway Code Rule 258: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-highway-code/motorways-253-to-273