Check before you travel!
| Published: 27th July 2007 15:29 |
The Highways Agency is advising holiday makers taking to the roads this weekend to check the weather forecast and road conditions before they travel, particularly if their route takes them through areas affected by, or at risk of flooding following the recent heavy rain.
Roads leading to the South West, including the M5, A303 and A38 are expected to be busy between Friday lunchtime and Saturday evening as holiday makers travel to and from their holiday destinations.
Water levels are still high in some areas and the travel situation may change at short notice if the heavy rain continues.
We advise drivers to:
Check road and weather conditions before you set off, and listen to radio bulletins while you travel.
Allow plenty of time for your journey if the roads are busy, and take regular breaks, at least one 15 minute break every two hours.
Take food and something to drink if you are planning a long journey, in case of unexpected delays.
The Highways Agency is working closely with the Met Office and monitoring England's motorways and major A roads from its National Traffic Control Centre and seven Regional Control Centres.
Rain and spray can reduce visibility and more than double the distance it takes to stop. Drivers are advised to use headlights and keep well back from the vehicle in front. If water is reducing grip and making steering unresponsive, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.
Up-to-date information on road conditions on England's motorways and trunk roads, is available on the Agency website at www.highways.gov.uk or call 08457 504030. For information on weather conditions, visit the Met Office website at www.metoffice.gov.uk or listen to local radio broadcasts.
By phone from the Highways Agency 24-hour voice activated phone service on 08700 660 115. (Calls from BT landlines to 0870 numbers will cost no more than 8p per minute; mobile calls usually cost more).
Before using a mobile, find a safe place to park. Never stop on the hard shoulder of a motorway except in an emergency. Make sure it's safe and legal before you call.
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