20 million car journeys planned this weekend
Nearly 20 million car journeys are expected this weekend to mark the start of the autumn half term.
According to research carried out by RAC Breakdown, 19.4 million separate leisure trips will take place from today to Sunday.
Saturday is expected to be the most popular day with drivers planning an estimated 5.6 million getaway journeys, followed by Sunday (4.6 million) and Friday (4.3 million).
A further 4.9 million trips are planned across one of the three days.
Separate RAC research suggests that of those planning a trip this October, most (72%) will be go no more than 200 miles from home, but around a fifth (22%) expect to go further than they typically would during this time of year.
Autumn rush
RAC Breakdown spokesperson Rod Dennis said: “Summer might be long gone but these figures suggest there might still be something of an autumn rush on the roads in the coming days as millions of drivers look to get away for the half term holidays.
“That could well spark a jump in the number of breakdowns and, while many of these can’t be foreseen, a good number could be avoided if drivers spent just a little time looking over their cars before setting out.
“The key to a smooth journey is checking oil, coolant and screenwash levels are all where they should be, and making sure tyres are in good condition, have plenty of tread and are properly inflated.
“Not checking these things increases the risk of a breakdown significantly, which is the last thing drivers want as they head away for a well-earned rest.”
