More than half of UK motorists are risking their lives by using the motorway’s hard shoulders for non-emergency reasons.

And the top reason for pulling over is to take a toilet brake.

Research by the AA found 52 per cent use the hard shoulder improperly with 14 per cent using it for a lavatory stop.

Around 170 deaths and serious injuries are caused each year by collisions with vehicles parked on the hard shoulder.

Other top reasons include checking directions, using a mobile phone and retrieving items from the boot.

The AA’s Nick Evers said: “You wouldn’t believe some of the things we see regularly on the hard shoulders.

 “We’ve even seen a couple with their camping table and chairs out, having lunch.”

Auto Trader Links:

When you've got to go...
Top cop says cars are biggest killers
Speed cameras miss half of drivers
Holiday driving: The lowdown
Car insurance explained
The A-Z of car insurance