Common During Mudik Season: The Risks of Stopping on Motorway Shoulders

Jakarta – Homebound journeys during Ramadan typically feature congested motorway traffic. However, many drivers still stop on motorway shoulders for brief rest periods, despite the substantial safety risks that often go unrecognised.

Motorway shoulders are fundamentally provided as emergency areas for vehicles experiencing breakdowns, such as engine failure, punctured tyres, or other conditions preventing continuation of the journey.

Marcell Kurniawan, Training Director at Real Driving Centre (RDC), states that stopping on a motorway shoulder without genuine emergency justification is prohibited. Moreover, he emphasises that such stops significantly increase the risk of being struck by other vehicles.

“The risk of impact can also occur when passengers or drivers exit the vehicle,” he notes.

Sony Susmana, Training Director at Safety Driving Consultant Indonesia, explains that stopping on motorway shoulders is theoretically safe, provided drivers understand applicable regulations. However, conditions in Indonesia differ considerably.

Whilst emergency stops on shoulders are technically permitted, driving behaviour among Indonesian motorway users creates genuine danger. Prolonged stops are hazardous due to the risk of other drivers speeding along the shoulder without caution.

“Stopping on the shoulder itself is correct. However, the risk is high of being struck by disorderly drivers,” Susmana adds.

Consequently, drivers are urged to use motorway shoulders exclusively during genuine emergencies and to utilise designated rest areas when seeking respite, thereby maintaining safety throughout their homebound journeys.