The temptation to use that clear lane next to the roadway is strong, but no. The emergency lane is not for gaining a few positions in case of queues or traffic jams. Or for speeding up a bit, if traffic is slow. On those lanes, "it is forbidden to circulate except to stop or resume driving," as prescribed by the Highway Code, because - Article 3 - they are "intended for emergency stops, the transit of emergency vehicles, and, exceptionally, the movement of pedestrians, in cases where their circulation is permitted." So, if the car is broken down, due to the driver or a passenger feeling unwell, or for the passage of ambulances or law enforcement, with the siren on. The only exception allowed: to reach the nearest motorway exit in case of a traffic jam, but only if it is less than 500 meters away.
Let's look at some of the behaviors allowed and prohibited by the Highway Code. In the emergency lane:
The stop must be limited to the time strictly necessary to overcome the emergency itself and must not, in any case, exceed three hours. After this period, the vehicle may be forcibly removed.
During stops and parking at night or in case of limited visibility, parking lights must always be kept on. If they are inefficient, the warning triangle must be used, placed at least 100 meters before the vehicle. And the triangle is mandatory, always at 100 meters, even if the breakdown makes it impossible to move the vehicle to the emergency lane or the lay-by, or if these are missing. The Code doesn't say so, but it's better to also use the four-way flashers.
Pedestrians are only allowed to pass to reach points for requesting assistance. Before getting out of the vehicle, it is mandatory to wear approved reflective jackets with the CE mark (which must be kept on board!).
Reversing is prohibited, even on emergency stopping lanes, with the exception of maneuvers necessary in service or parking areas.
All rules regarding circulation on motorways and extra-urban roads are listed in Articles 175 and 176, along with the related penalties: fines and loss of license points. "Emergency lane smart alecks," take a look.
