Half of drivers think middle lane hogging and undertaking are getting worse on the UK roads, according to new AA research.

The 50mph limits are said to cut emissions by up to 18%

Although the most recent Department for Transport statistics showing the number of fixed penalty notices for careless driving fell by 8.4% in 2017, the AA/Populus research finds half of drivers think middle lane hogging (49%) and overtaking on the left/inside (50%) are getting worse. That’s despite the introduction of on-the-spot penalties in August 2013 to tackle the issue.

The AA survey findings follow the recent publication of a police video showing a driver travelling for three miles in the middle lane on the M6.

Edmund King, AA Charitable Trust director, said: “The drop in fixed penalty notices for careless driving probably points more to a reduction in traffic police than it does to a meaningful change in behaviour. Hopefully allowing learner drivers on motorways will lead to a new generation of drivers who understand lane discipline.”

The AA/Populus research also revealed two fifths (38%) of drivers say they will not drive in lane one of a smart motorway where the hard shoulder has been permanently converted into a running lane because they are worried about running into broken down vehicles. This in turn leads more lane hogging and tailgating in other lanes. In response, the AA is reiterating its calls for more lay-bys on smart motorways to allay the fears of drivers.