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Motorists are being told what the little-known ‘free recovery’ sign seen during motorway roadworks actually means. Motoring experts are reminding drivers that the service is designed to keep traffic moving safely, but it does not replace breakdown cover.
Free recovery services are arranged by National Highways when roadworks create conditions that make breakdowns more dangerous or disruptive.
This includes situations where the hard shoulder is being used as a live running lane, there is no direct access to hard shoulders or emergency refuge areas, carriageway lane widths have been reduced, or emergency roadside telephones have been suspended.
If a vehicle breaks down or is damaged within these roadworks, the free recovery service team will move it to a nearby place of relative safety, for example, the hard shoulder.
However, the service operates only within the works and does not tow vehicles home or to a garage. Drivers are responsible for arranging and paying for any further recovery that may be required.
Free recovery also does not replace breakdown cover, and motorists are strongly advised to ensure they have their own policy and keep details accessible in case of emergency.
Failing to understand the purpose of these signs could lead to confusion or delays during a breakdown in roadworks, where safety risks are heightened.
To use free recovery in roadworks, use the roadside SOS phones or a mobile phone to call National Highways on 0300 123 5000. When you’re stuck in a live lane, keep your seatbelt on, turn on hazard lights, and call 999.
Motorists can reduce the risk of breaking down by carrying out simple checks before setting off, such as ensuring tyres are properly inflated with sufficient tread, confirming fuel or charge levels are adequate, and keeping their vehicle regularly serviced.
John Wilmot, CEO and founder of car leasing deals comparison site LeaseLoco, said: ”Many drivers assume that ‘free recovery’ means their vehicle will be taken wherever they need it at no cost, but the reality is quite different.
“The service exists to quickly move broken down or damaged vehicles out of potentially dangerous roadworks areas and reduce congestion or the risk of accidents.
“It only applies within the roadworks zone and is there to get motorists to a safer location, not to replace breakdown cover or take them to a repair centre.
“That’s why it’s so important drivers understand what the sign actually means and ensure they have their own recovery arrangements in place before setting off.”
LeaseLoco is the UK’s biggest car lease comparison website, making it super quick and easy for drivers to filter and compare millions of car lease deals from the country’s leading car leasing companies to best suit their needs.
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