ContiNetwork is calling for further clarity within the motor industry following a successful forum organised earlier this year by the ContiNetwork in London which discussed the potential dangers associated with breaking down at the roadside.

It is common knowledge that often due to ignorance and simply lack of knowledge of how to behave correctly at the roadside, too many people are killed and injured on hard shoulders every year. The hard shoulder on motorways and dual carriageways is all too often seen as a refuge for those who are unable to continue their journey. However, most drivers are unaware of the severe dangers and consequences of spending any amount of time in this area.

The ContiNetwork Roadside Safety Forum brought together representatives from the haulage and recovery sectors, police and Highways Agency, which raised debate from all aspects of the industry. The forum highlighted that there is significant confusion surrounding the correct procedure when parked or attending a breakdown on the hard shoulder.

Some of the factors that were discussed included: Does the driver stay in the vehicle? Does the driver put their hazards lights on? Who should be informed? How should the vehicle best be parked? There appears to be conflicting advice within in the industry on this issue.

As a result of the forum, the ContiNetwork has developed a guide offering some practical advice and tips for all involved at the roadside as to how to minimise their risk and best proceed in such circumstances.

Jeff Book, Product Manager of the ContiNetwork, said: "The topics discussed and the considerable debate at the forum demonstrates the importance of bringing together representatives across the industry to raise roadside safety as an issue. It is clear that it urgently needs to be addressed if the UK is to reduce the death tolls and injuries, which take place at the roadside. ContiNetwork hopes that the forum will result in helping to encourage the industry to come to a unified approach on correct procedure at the roadside."

Backed by Continental, ContiNetwork is a nationwide network of independent partners providing an exceptional commercial tyre service to local, regional and national fleets.  Each partner has been individually selected to provide the highest level of service focusing on supplying and maintaining tyres on commercial vehicles.  ContiNetwork has over 200 partner locations and over 500 breakdown response vans.