What is the shoulder of the road?

The shoulder of the road is the paved section of the roadway that is located to the right or left of the main travel lanes. It is primarily used as a safety buffer between the road and surrounding obstacles such as ditches, guardrails, trees, or structures.

The shoulder of the road can serve several purposes, including emergency stopping or breakdown lanes, space for roadside parking, or as a designated area for cyclists and pedestrians. In many countries, the shoulder is also used for emergency vehicles to pull over and allow traffic to pass.

It is important to note that the width and condition of the shoulder can vary greatly depending on the type of road and jurisdiction. Highways and interstates typically have wider, paved shoulders, while local streets may have narrower or unpaved shoulders. It is important for drivers to be aware of the shoulder and use it safely when necessary.