Motorists have been urged to prepare for extreme weather conditions amid an increase in winter breakdowns. 

It comes as statistics published by National Highways reveal a number of road users are not prepared for travel during the winter period.

With nearly 40 per cent of drivers planning long journeys over the festive season, results show that only 34 per cent travel with water and 10 per cent with emergency food. 

Only half of road users have de-icers in their vehicles while a shocking 64 per cent travel without extra layers or warm clothes. 

National Highways announced the data as part of its annual winter TRIP campaign which launched on Monday, November 25. 

The initiative aims to ecnourage drivers to take necessary precautions as colder weather sets in and road conditions become more challenging with the likes of snow, ice and rain. 

The acronym TRIP promotes four simple steps to prepare drivers using motorways and major A roads this winter:

  • Top-up: Fuel, oil, and screen wash

  • Rest: Plan regular stops every two hours to avoid driver fatigue

  • Inspect: Check tyre pressure and tread

  • Prepare: Have a plan for severe weather conditions

Friday, 20th December is expected to be the busiest day on the roads over the festive period, with 7.2 million people planning to travel more than two hours.

Drivers are being encouraged to plan and prepare now by packing a winter travel kit including de-icer, an ice scraper, warm clothing, boots, food, water, a torch, and a snow shovel. 

Figures show that winter breakdown incidents on major roads have increased by 22 per cent over the last five years, with tyre issues listed as the top reason.

Duncan Smith, Executive Director of Operations at National Highways, said: “Preparation is key to staying safe during winter journeys and we’re already playing our part by lifting roadworks on key routes in time for Black Friday deliveries next week, helping logistics companies.

“Across the entire winter season, we have Traffic Officers, Control Operators and operations colleagues working around the clock to keep roads accessible, providing a smoother travel experience for all.

“We’re now asking road users to do their bit too. Packing the right essentials and driving cautiously in poor weather can make all the difference. So, if you’re planning to use the roads, check your vehicle, plan ahead, and use our TRIP guidance to get winter ready.”

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