Middle Lane Hogging: A Persistent Problem on UK Motorways

Updated 20 March 2025 | Published 1 December 2016

Most drivers who have spent time on the motorway will have encountered middle lane hoggers—those who remain in the middle lane unnecessarily, seemingly unaware of the frustration they cause. These drivers sit there, plodding along without a care, forcing others to undertake or tailgate, creating dangerous situations on the road.

While middle lane hogging might seem like a minor annoyance, it is, in reality, a hazardous habit. It disrupts the natural flow of traffic and compels other drivers to take risky actions, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Understanding Motorway Lane Use

Motorways in the UK typically have three lanes:

• Lane 1 (inside lane): This is the primary driving lane where vehicles should remain unless overtaking.
• Lane 2 (middle lane): Used for overtaking slower-moving traffic in Lane 1.
• Lane 3 (outside lane): Reserved for overtaking vehicles in Lane 2 or for faster-moving traffic.

Once an overtaking manoeuvre is complete, drivers should return to Lane 1. If all motorists followed this rule, congestion would ease, and motorways would be safer and more efficient.

Middle Lane Hogging and the Law

Recognising the dangers posed by middle lane hogging, the government introduced stricter penalties in 2013. Police were given the authority to issue on-the-spot fines of £100 and three penalty points to drivers failing to keep left when not overtaking.

However, despite this legal deterrent, enforcement remains a challenge. Since the law’s introduction, only a few hundred drivers have been penalised, a figure that does not reflect the true scale of the problem. With fewer traffic officers patrolling motorways due to budget cuts, many middle lane offenders continue to drive without consequence, frustrating other motorists and contributing to avoidable accidents.

Lack of Awareness: A Key Issue

One of the biggest contributing factors to middle lane hogging is a lack of awareness. Many drivers simply do not understand how to use motorways correctly. Whether due to ignorance, complacency, or a mistaken belief that they have the right to sit in the middle lane, these drivers pose a risk to themselves and others.

Should There Be a Motorway Driving Test?

The Highway Code is clear about correct motorway use, yet many drivers either ignore or are unaware of these rules. This raises the question: should there be a dedicated motorway driving test?

Currently, learner drivers in the UK are not required to take a separate test for motorway driving, though they can now practise on motorways if accompanied by an instructor in a dual-control car. However, many drivers obtain their licence without ever driving on a motorway, which may contribute to poor habits like middle lane hogging.

Requiring new drivers to pass a motorway-specific test could help reduce dangerous behaviours, ensuring that all road users have the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate motorways safely.

What to Do If You Come Across a Middle Lane Hogger

If you find yourself stuck behind a middle lane hogger, it can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to make good progress on a motorway. Here’s what you should do:

1. Stay Calm and Patient
   It’s easy to become irritated, but staying calm will help you make better decisions. Keep a safe distance and avoid engaging in aggressive driving.

2. Check Your Surroundings
   Before attempting to overtake, make sure the lanes are clear and safe to manoeuvre. Always check your mirrors and blind spots to ensure there’s no danger from vehicles in the adjacent lanes.

3. Signal Your Intentions
   If the middle lane hogger is not aware of your presence, gently use your indicator to signal your intention to overtake. This should give them a chance to move over, provided they are paying attention.

4. Overtake Safely
   If there’s no response from the hogger, overtaking is the only option. Do so safely, ensuring that you’re in the correct lane and that you have enough space to pass.

5. Avoid Undertaking
   Undertaking (passing on the left) is generally not recommended and, in most cases, can be dangerous. According to UK road laws, you are allowed to undertake only if traffic in the right-hand lane is moving slower than you and the left-hand lane is clear. However, undertaking a middle lane hogger can increase the risk of collisions, as it can be unpredictable when other drivers suddenly move into the left lane. If you must undertake, do so cautiously and ensure you’re not putting yourself or others at risk.

6. Avoid Confrontation
   While it might be tempting to flash your headlights or gesture at the driver, this can escalate the situation. It’s best to avoid any confrontation or aggressive behaviour, as it can lead to dangerous driving and potential road rage.

7. Report Dangerous Driving
   If the middle lane hogger is driving in a manner that you consider to be dangerously obstructive (e.g., blocking lanes without any reason), you can report it to the police via the non-emergency 101 number.

Conclusion

Middle lane hogging remains a serious issue on UK motorways. While laws exist to penalise offenders, enforcement is limited, and awareness remains low. A combination of better driver education, stricter enforcement, and possibly even a dedicated motorway driving test could help address this persistent problem. Until then, it is up to responsible drivers to set a good example and promote safer motorway use for all.