Soft shoulder: what it means

What it means

The material of the road shoulder may be softer than you would reasonably expect. It could be dangerous for anyone who wants to move off the road.

What you must do

Do not drive or stop on the shoulder. If you cannot avoid it, for example to avoid a collision, slow down as much as possible.

Where you see it

On any road.

Remember

Soft shoulder: stay off it. It pulls your vehicle towards the shoulder.

Why slow down so much? The vehicle will pull in the direction of the shoulder when you move off the road.

Test yourself

1. Question 1

   Which of these signs warns that the material of the road shoulder may be softer than reasonably expected?

   

   

   

   Show answer

   Answer: Picture C

   This is the Soft shoulder sign. It warns that the side strip of the road may be softer than you expect.

2. Question 2

   

   You wish to stop to answer a telephone call on a road where the sign shown is displayed. What applies to the shoulder of the road?

   • A You may stop on it but may not drive on it
   • B You may not drive or stop on it
   • C You may drive on it at a reduced speed
   Show answer

   Answer: B: You may not drive or stop on it

   At a Soft shoulder sign you must not drive on the shoulder and you must not stop on it.

3. Question 3

   At a Soft shoulder sign you are forced to move onto the shoulder in order to avoid a collision. What is required of you?

   • A Accelerate to return to the roadway quickly
   • B Slow down as much as possible
   • C Maintain your speed and steer sharply back
   Show answer

   Answer: B: Slow down as much as possible

   If you cannot avoid the soft shoulder, you must slow down as much as possible.