Why motorists face ‘weekend of doom’ on UK roads | UK | News
Motorists are being warned to expect a “wretched weekend” as millions of families embark on getaway trips after many schools in England and Wales closed for the summer this week.
The RAC estimates that 13.8 million motorists will take leisure trips between Friday and Sunday.
It would be the second busiest summer holiday weekend since 2015, behind 2022, when 18.8 million people took to the roads amid a heatwave and two years of lockdown.
Traffic congestion could reach its peak today as commuter traffic competes for road space with at least 3.2 million drivers making leisure journeys to airports, UK holidays and day trips.
An additional 3.6 million and 2.9 million trips are expected tomorrow and Sunday respectively, with around four million more expected at some point over the weekend.
Transport analytics firm Inrix has warned drivers wanting to avoid the worst delays not to travel between 12pm and 5pm on Friday or Saturday, and between 11am and 1pm on Sunday.
Traffic on routes serving popular resorts is expected to increase from Friday afternoon.
Delays are likely to begin on the M55 westbound from Preston to Blackpool at 1.30pm, and on the A23 southbound from Pease Pottage services in West Sussex to Brighton from 3.30pm.
The longest queues are expected to last more than two hours on Saturday lunchtime on the M5 southbound from junction 15 near Bristol to junction 23 for Bridgwater, as holidaymakers flock to Devon and Cornwall.
RAC spokesperson Alice Simpson said: “To avoid a miserable weekend on the roads during one of the busiest times of the year, we are advising as many people as possible to leave as early as possible to try to spread car journeys over a longer period.
longer period.
“All holidaymakers, whether driving within the UK or abroad, should plan their trip carefully and allow plenty of extra time before setting off.”
Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at Inrix, said: “Drivers should expect long lines on major roads as they travel to and from their destinations during this summer getaway.
“Being flexible with your itinerary – whether it’s departure time or a longer journey in miles with fewer delays – could also reduce the stress of delays and make the journey more enjoyable.”
The travel warning comes as an RAC survey found 11 per cent of motorists had travelled to their holiday destination knowing there was a problem with their vehicle. Ms Simpson, pictured left, said the survey results were “a cause for great concern”.
She urged all drivers to ensure their cars are ready for a journey by fixing any outstanding issues and checking the oil and coolant.
and tire tread and pressure before setting off.
