Drivers need to be careful they’re not making this common motoring mistake as it could put them at risk of nasty fine and even add penalty points to their licence
Many motorists believe that sitting in the middle lane of the motorway is harmless, but motoring experts warn that this common habit can result in a hefty punishment.
Middle lane hogging was made a punishable offence in 2013 under the careless driving law, which means that drivers caught in the act could face a £100 on-the-spot fine, as well as three penalty points on their licence.
However, motoring experts from Number1Plates caution that many UK drivers continue to ignore the rules, putting themselves at risk of penalties and even higher insurance costs. This driving faux pas is considered a problem as it goes against the Highway Code, which states that drivers should always keep left on motorways unless they are overtaking.
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The middle lane is only meant to be used briefly for overtaking slower traffic in the left lane.
Therefore, when drivers stay in the middle lane unnecessarily, it can severely disrupt the flow of traffic as it forces motorists to overtake from the right-hand lane – potentially causing congestion, frustration, and even accidents.
According to motoring experts, this habit is one of the top sources of road rage and is often done out of laziness or a belief that it is safer to “stay in the middle”.
Any drivers caught hogging the middle lane face a £100 fixed penalty notice and three penalty points, which remain on their record for four years.
When the law was first introduced in 2013, over 2,000 fines were issued in the first year for careless driving offences, including tailgating and middle lane hogging. More than 10 years later, enforcement remains active, with motorway patrols and cameras continuing to detect offenders.
The consequences can be serious if caught. For those who already have penalty points on their license, these additional sanctions could push them closer to disqualification. Additionally, insurers may raise premiums for anyone with careless driving points, further worsening the financial impact.
In many cases, offenders are stopped directly on the motorway. For example, someone travelling in light traffic with an empty left-hand lane but choosing to remain in the middle could be fined instantly, even if they argue it was “just easier” or “felt safer”.
explained: “Many drivers think middle lane hogging is not a serious issue, but it creates unnecessary risks and slows down traffic for everyone else. By keeping left unless overtaking, motorists not only follow the law but also make our roads safer and more efficient.”
To avoid making this mistake, motoring experts suggest keeping left whenever possible, returning to the left lane promptly after overtaking and staying alert, especially on quieter roads. They also urge drivers to stop assuming the middle lane is safer.
A spokesperson from Number1Plates said: “Middle lane hogging is one of those habits that people do not think much about, but it carries real consequences. A little extra awareness can save you money, protect your licence, and help make the motorway a safer place for all.”