Petrol and diesel drivers urged to refill vehicles earlier than 10am tomorrow
The RAC says this Early May Bank Holiday is set to be the busiest in 10 years, with 19 million journeys expected between May 2 and May 4
Fill up before it’s too late(Image: Finnbarr Webster, Getty Images)
Motorists are being urged to fuel up and hit the roads before 10am this Saturday as Early May Bank Holiday weekend traffic is poised to create substantial gridlock nightmares on Britain’s highways.
Climbing petrol and diesel costs seem to be having minimal impact on deterring drivers from organising getaways for the Bank Holiday, according to breakdown specialists at the RAC, with a massive 19 million trips anticipated this weekend between May 2 and May 4.
The RAC and transport analysts INRIX are predicting 39% of British motorists will venture onto the roads this weekend at some stage from Friday through to Monday, with Saturday forecast to be the most chaotic day, featuring over 4 million planned excursions.
Currently, petrol stands at 157.17p per litre on average, while diesel sits at 189.23p per litre, based on the most recent RAC data.
Given the unprecedented number of trips scheduled for this approaching weekend, RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader Sean Kimberlin advised it was optimal to refuel and begin your travels as early as feasible this Saturday, ideally before 10am, reports the Express.
He said: “Even though fuel prices are uncomfortably high it clearly takes a lot to stop drivers taking to the roads to make the most of a bank holiday weekend.
“And the fact our research shows it’s set to be the busiest early May bank holiday in 10 years shows just how much we, as a country, love a bank holiday – and depend on our cars to get us wherever we want to go.
“In order to enjoy some time away, whether that’s a visit to the coast, a day out or a break with friends or family, it’s vital drivers make sure their vehicles are up to the task. Some quick and easy checks can make the difference between a great weekend and one that falls flat due to a breakdown.
“Checking your oil and coolant are both nicely between the minimum and maximum lines is the first step, followed by ensuring the tyres have plenty of tread, are in good condition, and are pumped up to the right pressures, something that also helps with fuel economy. Screenwash is also important at this time of year to make sure you always have a good, clear and bug-free view of the road.
“If drivers have any nagging doubts about how well their vehicle is running, it’s still not too late to get them sorted or arrange a service with an RAC Mobile Mechanic.
“Beating the traffic is another key part of any bank holiday weekend. Leaving earlier than everyone else is the best tactic, but those with young families may well struggle to do this.
“Our long-term data shows that Saturday morning from 10am to lunchtime will see the heaviest traffic, almost certainly on the M5 from Bristol to Taunton as people head to Devon and Cornwall. If that’s the way you’re heading on Saturday, getting past the RAC tower at the M4/M5 interchange as early as possible is a good goal.
“Anyone looking to fill up for their bank holiday trip for the lowest possible price should download the myRAC app and use the Fuel Finder feature to track down the cheapest forecourt near them.”
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