RAC points warning to drivers over Britain’s roads this Saturday | UK | News | EUROtoday

Motorists have been warned that UK roads are predicted to expertise their busiest Christmas getaway on document, in keeping with the RAC.

As Britons journey throughout the nation to spend Christmas with their family members, Saturday this weekend – known as “Snarl-up Saturday” – is predicted to be particularly frantic.

Drivers are suggested to plan forward, examine their routes, and permit further time for journeys because of the unprecedented quantity of festive journey. The worst time to drive this yr is between 1pm and 7pm this Saturday and on Christmas Eve.

An enormous 37.5million journeys to see family and friends are deliberate within the week operating as much as December 25. This yr’s Christmas getaway figures are the very best since data started in 2013, up by an enormous 8 million journeys since final yr’s 29.3million.

Christmas falls mid-week on a Thursday in 2025. The figures point out that drivers are eager to set off early to keep away from getting caught in visitors.

Around 18% of getaway journeys, equating to six.5m journeys, shall be made on December 17 and 18.

The RAC forecasts that the primary wave of Christmas automobile journeys will start on Friday, December 19 with 3.6million journeys. Then, it’ll escalate to 4.1million on “Snarl-up Saturday”. An additional 3.5million journeys are anticipated on Sunday.

RAC cellular servicing and repairs group chief Nick Mullender stated: “With record numbers predicted to be taking to the roads this Christmas, journeys have the potential to be ‘Grinch-worthy’ without some careful planning.

“‘Snarl-up Saturday’ will be especially busy amid journeys home and the final weekend for gift shopping, but it’s midweek Christmas Eve that takes the top spot, suggesting many drivers are saving their precious annual leave and making getaway journeys at the very last moment.”

Between December 19 and 21, some 5.3million journeys will happen, however drivers are nonetheless uncertain which day they may select.

“This year motorists tell us the reliability and convenience of the car, the practicality of transporting passengers, presents and luggage, and the cost compared to catching trains or coaches are the main reasons for driving rather than using any alternative form of transport,” stated Mullender.

“Seasonal issues are also a factor in the decision, like fears about public transport being delayed or cancelled due to bad weather or engineering works.”