Drivers could be hit with a hefty fine of up to £2,500 and slapped with three or more points on their driving licence if they fail to heed smart motorway signs. These advanced stretches, constituting around 13 percent of England's motorway network, are employing various traffic management techniques to tackle congestion and improve road capacity.

A crucial aspect of these smart motorways is the deployment of variable speed limits that deviate from the standard 70mph, commanding drivers to stay vigilant for swift changes in speed regulations.

Prominently displayed smart motorway signs indicating dynamic speed limit alterations underline the significance of these controls.

The Highway Code's Rule 256 clearly mandates: "A single sign of signal can display advice, restrictions and warnings for all lanes. Lane specific signs and signals can display advice, restrictions and warning that apply to individual lanes."

Motorists should take special notice that flouting updated motorway speed limits falls under the offence of speeding.

While the usual penalty for such an infringement begins at a £100 fine and three penalty points, greater repercussions can occur depending on the situation.

The rules around Fixed Penalty Notices (FPN) for speeding are quite clear: you have the option to challenge the notice in court. However, if you plead not guilty and are then found guilty in court, you could be hit with a fine exceeding the original £100.

The final penalty largely depends on how much you were over the speed limit and the zone where the offence occurred. Typically, fines can reach up to £2,500, particularly where motorway breaches are concerned.

The financial punishment typically scales with your weekly income. In addition to heftier fines, you could also end up with more points on your licence or face a ban from driving altogether.

Red 'X' on the hard shoulder

Under Rule 258 of the Highway Code: "Red flashing light signals and a red 'X' on a sign identify a closed lane in which people, stopped vehicles or other hazards are present. You must follow the instructions on signs in advance of a closed lane to move safelty an open lane."

Motorists are being reminded that "[You] must not drive in a closed lane. A sign will inform you when the lane is no longer closed by displaying a speed limit or the word 'END'."

Drivers utilising smart motorways should be aware of intermittent use of the hard shoulder to relieve heavy traffic, as stated in Rule 269 of the Highway Code. The code highlights how this is indicated: a speed limit displayed above the hard shoulder means it's in use; otherwise, drivers may confront a blank sign or the ominous red X signalling to steer clear.

Ignoring these indications poses significant risks - illegal use of the hard shoulder, unless during an emergency or directed by an authority, carries penalties. Infringements can lead to a £100 fine and three points on your driving licence.

These repercussions can escalate if misuse leads to an accident; charges of careless driving could result in fines up to £5,000, nine penalty points, or even suspension of your licence. Comprehensive information regarding motorway regulations can be found under rules 253 to 274 of the Highway Code, available for review online