- Spike in traffic
expected this Friday and Saturday as schools close for half-term
- Households putting
off Autumn getaways to provide a decent Christmas
- Drivers should check
their vehicle lights as dark evening commute returns next week
With English and Welsh schools closing their gates this Friday
(21 October), the AA is predicting a quiet half-term this October
as drivers look to weather both financial and meteorological
storms.
Traffic will peak Friday evening and again Saturday mid-morning
with some drivers heading off for a week’s holiday, but the
number of people travelling at these times are not expected to
match previous autumn breaks so should have a marginal impact on
journey times.
The cost of living crisis is having an impact on households as
they look ahead to Christmas and higher bills. Many have decided
to cut back this coming week to offer some frivolity in December,
planning more localised days out to parks and popular local
attractions.
A reduction in travel is also coupled with an inclement weather
forecast. The UK’s number one breakdown organisation* is advising
drivers to adjust their driving style accordingly as wet and
windy weather looks set to hit the country throughout the week.
To help drivers tackle the cost of living crisis, the AA is
offering a half-price sale on its monthly breakdown packages**.
AA membership unlocks a variety of discounts and money-saving
benefits including a fuel price checker, discounted entry at
various attractions and 50% off food and drink at numerous pubs
and restaurants across the UK***.
It also includes the free AA app which is the quickest way to
report a breakdown and allows AA members to track their patrol’s
arrival on their smartphone.
Sean Sidley, AA patrol of the year, says: “Half-term travel can
be quite hectic, but we are expecting a quieter week as people
look to cushion the blow from a string of higher bills whilst
planning for a ‘Happy Christmas’.
“Those heading out in their cars could become complacent by not
carrying out pre-journey vehicle checks. Spending five minutes
checking your car over before setting off**** can make all the
difference between making it to your destination or ending up
with an avoidable and expensive repair bill.
“For additional peace of mind, our Which? recommended AA
breakdown cover comes with unlimited callouts and helpful extras,
such as discounts at restaurants and other family attractions.”
ends
NOTE TO EDITORS
* Why we're best for breakdown |
The AA
** Breakdown Cover with Unlimited
Call Outs | The AA
*** The AA app allows you to
both report and track a breakdown, so you know when the patrol
will arrive. It includes the popular AA route planner and traffic
updates, as well as vehicle reminders for MOT, tax, insurance and
service dates. Other enhanced features for all AA members include
a fuel price checker, parking-space finder and comprehensive
guide to dashboard warning lights.
