Drivers on part of the M8 heading towards Edinburgh have been warned that part of the hard shoulder will become a live lane this week.
Traffic Scotland have issued a reminder that the eastbound section of the motorway between Claylands (M8 junction 2) and Hermiston Gait (M8 junction 1) will see buses use the stretch from Thursday (April 21.)
Indicated by new traffic signs, markings and green road surfacing, motorists have been told to be aware of the new changes to the 70mph stretch.
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According to the new rules, drivers if in an emergency should try and attempt to pull over in one of three emergency refuge areas located next to the bus lane.
However, if this is not possible, the hard shoulder can still be used.
Ahead of the changes, Traffic Scotland have issued the following information:
Who can use the bus lane?
Most public transport buses will be able to use the bus lane. Other vehicles such as private hire vehicles, taxis and other public service buses are not permitted to use the bus lane. This new bus lane will operate in the same way as the existing bus lanes that drivers will be familiar with if they use the M90 and M9 on the Queensferry Crossing corridor.
The use of the bus lane is restricted to buses and coaches that can carry 24 seated passengers or more and, as well as being a bus lane, it is always accessible as a hard shoulder to any vehicle involved in a breakdown or emergency.
How will the bus lane operate?
In normal operation, the bus lane is open and is indicated by a blank signal. In emergency situations, the motorway signal next to the bus lane is used to advise bus drivers that the bus lane is closed, and a red ‘X’ signal is displayed.
Motorway users should take care at the slip road on approach to Hermiston Gait as buses may carry straight on and re-enter the bus lane through the green marked section. Motorway users must not follow buses through the restricted section. Motorway users should also be aware that buses are likely to use normal traffic lanes during non-congested periods as they can travel at higher speeds than the advisory 40 mph maximum limit applicable to the bus lanes.
Use for Emergencies
As well as the facility of the hard shoulder, in an emergency motorway users can also use one of the three emergency refuge areas located next to the bus lane.
If you cannot reach an emergency refuge area in your vehicle, the hard shoulder should be used. Should you require a telephone, follow the directions on the roadside marker posts. These emergency refuge areas have emergency roadside telephones with a direct connection to the Traffic Scotland Control Centre whose trained operators will advise and support you. The telephones are generally positioned behind roadside barriers and at a height suitable for road users with disabilities.
If you use your mobile to report an emergency, dial 112 or 999 to contact the emergency services.
Always follow the Highway Code directions for breakdowns and incidents, including additional rules for the motorway (sections 274 to 287). An online version of the Highway Code is available at?www.direct.gov.uk
Traffic Scotland is operated around the clock (24/7/365) from the Traffic Scotland National Control Centre (TSNCC). ?You can keep up to date with real-time traffic and travel information by:
Visiting www.trafficscotland.org
Listening to Traffic Scotland Radio online or by calling our customer careline
Checking in on twitter @trafficscotland or visiting our Facebook page @OfficialTrafficScotland
Speaking to the customer care line on 0800 028 1414
