The term 'side of a road' can be broken down into two crossword solutions: BERM (4 letters) and SHOULDER (8 letters). A BERM is a raised bank or mound of earth, usually found along the side of a road. It is used to provide a barrier between the road and any adjacent land. The SHOULDER of a road is the area between the edge of the road and the adjacent land. It is typically wider than the BERM and is used for emergency stopping, parking, and other activities.