Drivers have been warned ahead of what is set out to be the busiest May bank holiday weekend since before the Covid-19 pandemic. Research from the RAC and Inrix estimates more than 19 million leisure trips will be taken between Friday and Monday, with around 3.3 million trips taken each day.
Today (May 26) is projected to be the busiest day of the weekend, with three million getaway trips expected to be made as holidaymakers merge with usual Friday commuter traffic. A further 6.3m trips are expected to be taken at some point over the four days.
The M5 through Somerset has been highlighted as a hotspot for congestion, with late morning to early afternoon being earmarked as the worst times to travel. Delays are expected on the M5 north J25 Taunton to J15 Bristol.
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RAC Breakdown spokesperson Rod Dennis said the organisation is expecting a busier period than usual owing to a sunny and warm weather forecast. The Met Office predicts clear skies and above average temperatures across the South West through the weekend - and thousands will be looking to take advantage of the good weather.
Mr Dennis said: “With the travel restrictions imposed during Covid now thankfully a distant memory, it’s clear drivers’ desire to getaway has been reignited with our figures for this coming weekend suggesting leisure traffic volumes will be close to what we last saw in 2019.
“With the Met Office currently predicting largely settled weather with above average temperatures, we’re expecting this to be a hectic period on major roads as people aim to make the most of the last long weekend before August – and that means it will be a busy time for our patrols too."
He added the cost of living crisis may have left some households unable to undertake their usual car maintenance, which could lead to more breakdowns and delays on the motorway. The RAC has issued a reminder to car-owners to check their vehicles ahead of any long journeys.
"What’s more, with so many households under the cosh financially, we’re concerned that a lack of essential maintenance might lead to more avoidable breakdowns than we’d normally see," Mr Dennis said. "So we’re reminding everyone to ensure their cars are as a ready for a getaway as they can be – if a vehicle hasn’t been serviced recently, this is the week to get one done by a qualified professional.
"In fact, with more RAC Mobile Mechanics, who can complete minor or major servicing at a driver’s home or workplace, are available across the country than ever before, making a far easier and quicker process than many people might think. And, whether a car’s been serviced lately or not, a quick look at oil and coolant levels, together with checking tyres are in good condition and inflated properly, can go a long way to avoiding an unwelcome stop at the side of the road this weekend.”
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