What is a common misuse of the shoulder while driving?

Using the shoulder to overtake other vehicles is a common misuse while driving because the shoulder is not designed for regular traffic maneuvers. The shoulder is intended for emergencies, such as allowing vehicles to stop safely to the side of the road or providing access for emergency vehicles. When drivers use the shoulder to pass other vehicles, they put themselves and others at risk; it can create confusion and potentially lead to accidents since the shoulder is typically not marked as a lane of travel. Furthermore, this practice can endanger pedestrians or cyclists who may be using the shoulder space.

In contrast, parking for breaks and checking vehicle performance are usually acceptable uses of the shoulder when done safely and legally, and providing access for emergency vehicles is critical for maintaining public safety.