Warning to drivers: Road users set to be Royally annoyed at Jubilee weekend traffic

Drivers across the nation have been warned about bank holiday driving chaos as tens of thousands of UK roads are set to close to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee from the 2^nd – 4^th of June.

As 10% of Brits reveal they avoid travelling on special occasions*, what’s in store for the remaining 90% set to hit the roads for pageantry and parties? Used-car retailer CarStore urges drivers to be careful and shares top tips for drivers over the bank holiday weekend.

Here’s an overview of disruptions set to take place across the UK:

• Kicking off Thursday (June 2^nd) with the Queen’s Birthday Parade (Trooping the Colour) on Horse Guards Parade, right through to Sunday’s Jubilee Pageant at Buckingham Palace – an event that expected to draw thousands. For some, it’s the perfect opportunity to squeeze in a mini break, but with so many people thinking along the same lines, we could be set for chaos on the roads.
• Polling suggests 133,000 roads will be closed for street parties, parades, and other events.
• Bad news for tube users, too, as the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers has announced a strike on Friday 3^rd of June at two major London stations – potentially tempting more drivers to the roads.
• Congestion set to reach eye-watering highs as holidaymakers head for staycation hotspots such as Cornwall and Devon, the New Forest, and Lake District.

Mark Akbar, Managing Director at CarStore, shares his top for drivers during the Jubilee bank holiday weekend:

• Plan your route in advance – Utilise an app, such as Google Maps or Waze, or listen to the local radio station before you set off so you’re aware of congestion and accidents. Delays can frustrate road users, having a knock-on effect to their ability to calmy control a vehicle. But don’t forget – using a device whilst driving commands a fine of up to £1,000 or a whopping 6 points.
• Avoid peak times – The best way to avoid traffic is not to contribute to it. Travelling outside of peak times, such as setting off early in the morning or later at night, can help drivers avoid long queues and frustrating diversions. Again, check GPS-based apps or tune in to the local radio before setting off, so you know what to expect.
• Know the law – Brush up on the Highway Code and stay alert. With temporary road closures popping up across the country, jolly drivers in a hurry to get to events, and plenty of distractions on the road, it’s as important as ever to remain calm behind the wheel. A whopping 1 in 5[i] accidents on the UK’s roads are down to dangerous driving – many of which could be avoided.
• Keep your car safe and clutter free – it can be tempting to adorn your vehicle with a Union Jack or Jubilee flag, especially with 7% of Brits keeping a lucky charm on their car – but remember that external adornments can cause rubbish on the roads, leading to litter and fines – or even accidents.
• Run essential checks on your vehicle – It’s vital to ensure your car is roadworthy. Simple checks like making sure your tyre pressure is correct and adjusting weight according to the cargo in your vehicle (for example, if you’re packing luggage for a weekend away!). Drivers should also be prepared for warmer weather, making sure they sufficient engine coolant (and sunglasses for themselves!) and CarStore offers complimentary vehicle health checks with any visit to one of their workshops.

CarStore supports and helps drivers feel less worried and more secure when buying a car, in the safe knowledge that they carry out a thorough 123 unique check on every vehicle before they certify it as ready for customers, from driver comfort to suspension.

For more information about CarStore’s customer offering visit the website: https://www.carstore.com/