Autumn half-term getaway traffic alert

Beware of busy roads on Saturday October 22 when half-term getaway traffic is predicted to peak with around 4.4 million leisure journeys.

In all, RAC Traffic Watch reckons more than 15 million separate leisure trips will take place between Friday 21 and Monday October 24.

The RAC advises that roads are likely to be busiest on the evening of Friday October 21, when leisure and commuter traffic combine, and again on the mornings of Saturday 22 and Monday, October 24.

“This coming week will be the last chance for many people to have a break before Christmas so it’s understandable that millions of us are set to take to the roads to spend time with friends and family,” said RAC Traffic Watch’s Rod Dennis.

“We’ve had a long period of pretty settled weather recently and while things might be set to cool down a little into next week, there is still likely to be a lot of dry weather about – meaning this half-term will be a great time for families to pack up the car and get away for a day or more.

“A few basic checks of the car now can save real headaches later, so we’re advising drivers to have a look at things like oil, coolant and washer fluid levels before they set out on a long car trip. And don’t forget to check each tyre for tread and pressure – last year nearly 600 road accidents were caused by motorists driving on illegal, defective or underinflated tyres.

“The sun lingers lower in the sky now that we are well into autumn, so anyone setting out early in the day or around sunset needs to be mindful of glare. Every year there are between 2,500 and 3,000 accidents on UK roads caused by the dazzling sun so motorists should make sure they have suitable eyewear with them that is within easy reach.”

Predicted leisure car journeys by day

RAC members can quickly report a breakdown using the new RAC app – and those with an iPhone can use its in-built GPS to easily help report their location to the RAC’s breakdown assistance team.