Drivers have been issued a warning ahead of the bank holiday weekend, as many might unknowingly risk a £300 fine. With the May bank holiday upon us, millions of drivers will be travelling across the country to enjoy the good weather and extra time off work.
However, they may believe that having a fully comprehensive insurance policy gives them the same level of cover when driving another car. This isn't automatically the case, as the temporary car insurer Dayinsure has stressed. It's vital road users know this, as driving with the wrong insurance could see them face fines up to £300.
Instead, motorists need 'Driving Other Cars' (DOC) cover on top of what they already have. Ahead of the bank holiday, drivers are also being urged to complete their journeys before 10am on Friday.
RAC data shows 39 per cent of drivers intend to take to the road for a getaway some time from Friday through to Monday, with Saturday likely to see the heaviest traffic with more than 4 million journeys. The best time to travel is before 10am on Friday, the RAC warned. 'Frantic' Friday is predicted to be hectic with 3.7 million trips planned by those looking to make the most of the extra day off.
Both Sunday and the bank holiday Monday should see 3 million getaway journeys, while a further 5 million plan to travel one day between Friday and Monday but are yet to decide which day.
RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader Sean Kimberlin said: 'Even though fuel prices are uncomfortably high, it clearly takes a lot to stop drivers taking to the roads to make the most of a bank holiday weekend. And the fact our research shows it's set to be the busiest early May bank holiday in 10 years shows just how much we, as a country, love a bank holiday – and depend on our cars to get us wherever we want to go.'
'In order to enjoy some time away, whether that's a visit to the coast, a day out or a break with friends or family, it's vital drivers make sure their vehicles are up to the task. Some quick and easy checks can make the difference between a great weekend and one that falls flat due to a breakdown.'
'Checking the oil and coolant are both nicely between the minimum and maximum lines is the first step, followed by ensuring the tyres have plenty of tread, are in good condition, and are pumped up to the right pressures, something that also helps with fuel economy. Screenwash is also important at this time of year to make sure you always have a good, clear and bug-free view of the road.'
'If drivers have any nagging doubts about how well their vehicle is running, it's still not too late to get them sorted or arrange a service with an RAC Mobile Mechanic.'
'Beating the traffic is another key part of any bank holiday weekend. Leaving earlier than everyone else is the best tactic, but those with young families may well struggle to do this. Our long-term data shows that Saturday morning from 10am to lunchtime will see the heaviest traffic, almost certainly on the M5 from Bristol to Taunton as people head to Devon and Cornwall. If that's the way you're heading on Saturday, getting past the RAC tower at the M4/M5 interchange as early as possible is a good goal.'
Anyone looking to fill up for their bank holiday trip for the lowest possible price should download the myRAC app and use the Fuel Finder feature to track down the cheapest forecourt near them.
