Bumper-to-bumper traffic predicted for Christmas

Motorists should be prepared for bumper-to-bumper traffic in the coming days as AA Roadwatch predicts the busiest festive season in years.

Traffic levels have been at their heaviest in recent years and are unlikely to relent over the season, according to the traffic information provider.

Elaine O’Sullivan, editor of AA Roadwatch, says: “Christmas Day falls on a Friday this year which will help stagger the getaway traffic, but it’s still going to be very busy at peak times on the major routes. We’d advise motorists where possible to travel when it’s quieter and to make sure to plan your journey well in advance.”

Commuter traffic will gradually tail off before falling more significantly on Christmas Eve.

AA Roadwatch say they regularly see the worst delays occurring in commuter towns as people leave the major cities.

Most garages will be closed for the festive break, so the AA is reminding motorists of the importance of carrying out basic maintenance checks before they set off, such as filling up on petrol, checking and cleaning headlights, and adjusting tyre pressures for a full load, if required.