Drivers urged to avoid ‘Frantic Friday’ this Christmas as traffic jams forecast
The used vehicle retailer Big Motoring World has revealed the best times to travel on the roads during the festive season.
The Christmas period is one of the busiest times on the roads, with many UK motorists travelling to see loved ones and take a break elsewhere in the country.
Darren Miller, expert from Big Motoring World, explained that most of the journeys take place in the two days running up to Christmas day.
He advised: “Christmas is always a busy time on UK roads, with Inrix suggesting that more than 10million leisure journeys were recorded between the December 23rd and Christmas Day last year.
“The last Friday before Christmas, also known as ‘Frantic Friday’, is definitely one to avoid for driving. Not only do we see people travelling to visit family, but also the usual commuter traffic and shoppers scrambling to pick up last-minute gifts.”
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According to Big Motoring World, motorists looking to travel during Christmas should also avoid using certain popular motorways if they want to dodge the crowds.
The company advised that the M1 around Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire, the M4 between London and Southwest Wales, and the M6 around Birmingham are all expected to be very busy.
The M25 around London, the M27 in Hampshire and the M60 around Manchester are also expected to see traffic jams during the holidays.
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Darren suggested that motorists who want to drive on Christmas Eve should steer clear of travelling at mid-day, setting off earlier instead.
He added: “For those who prefer to travel on Christmas Eve, last year traffic specialists Inrix recommended that drivers avoid the 12pm-1pm slot, predicting that this would be by far the busiest period of the day. It might be sensible to avoid that slot again this year.
“Travelling before 10am where possible appears to be the best way to minimise delays in traffic jams.”
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Big Motoring World stated that the roads will likely be busier than normal throughout the festive period, with most drivers experiencing longer journeys.
The company recommended that motorists give themselves plenty of time to complete their journey and pack essentials, such as water, warm clothing, and snacks.
It is also advisable that drivers take regular breaks in safe places, such as service stations, to avoid getting tired when behind the wheel.
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