Vehicles prohibited from using motorways generally include those that are too slow or unsuitable for high-speed traffic, for safety reasons. Specifically, the following vehicles are typically banned from motorways:
- Mopeds under 50cc
- Agricultural vehicles like tractors and combine harvesters
- Mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs
- Bicycles
- Horse-drawn vehicles
- Certain three-wheeled vehicles depending on size and power
- Light quad bikes
- Pedestrian-controlled vehicles such as industrial floor cleaners
- Vehicles unable to reach at least 25 mph
Additionally, pedestrians, provisional motorcycle or car licence holders (unless accompanied by an instructor in a dual-control vehicle), motorcycles under 50cc, cyclists, horse riders, and those carrying oversized loads without special permission are also prohibited from using motorways. The key rationale is that any vehicle which cannot safely maintain the traffic flow speed (typically 60-70 mph) is not permitted on motorways to ensure road safety and prevent congestion or accidents.
