Drivers caught reversing on the A2 hard shoulder to dodge traffic jams face hefty fines after a serious crash near Gravesend.
Crash Triggers A2 Traffic Chaos
On Sunday 23 November 2025, emergency crews scrambled to a nasty collision on the A2 Watling Street coastbound involving two cars and a lorry. The crash sparked major delays as responders helped the injured and cleared the wreckage.
Motorists Break the Law to Beat the Jam
Some frustrated drivers took matters into their own hands, reversing along the hard shoulder to reach an earlier slip road. A few even turned around on this emergency-only lane, ignoring the rules.
Kent Police Hit Back with Fines
The Kent Police Roads Policing Unit, managing the scene, caught 16 drivers flouting the law. Each now faces a £100 fine and three penalty points on their licence.
“Those using the hard shoulder for anything other than a lawful reason could obstruct emergency vehicles heading towards a serious collision, impacting injured drivers,” said Inspector David Crompton.
“These motorists were reported just 13 minutes before the road reopened, so a bit more patience could have saved them a fine and penalty points.”
Officials warn: hard shoulders are for emergencies only. Misusing them risks delaying vital help and endangering lives.
