Because of interruption on vast portions of the rail network, England’s motorways and main A-roads are anticipated to be busier than normal in the coming days.
National Highways, which runs and maintains the 4,300-mile strategic road network, will be prepared to deploy more traffic cops and control center employees to deal with any increased congestion. On some critical roads, recovery personnel might be stationed along the highway to clear events swiftly and avoid protracted delays.
Strikes will take place on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday this week, affecting Network Rail and the majority of train operators.
And motorists are being urged to do their bit to keep traffic moving by carrying out basic vehicle checks before setting off.
Mel Clarke, Customer Service Director, Operations, at National Highways, said:
National Highways will be putting measures in place to ensure we continue to keep the country moving safely and deal with any increased traffic volumes caused by rail strike action.
Roads could be busier than usual during strike days so we’d recommend that drivers plan journeys in advance and carry out basic checks to make sure vehicles are roadworthy. This includes checking tyres, engine oil, water, lights and ensuring you have enough fuel to get to your destination.
National Highways is advising drivers to plan their journeys in advance and carry out basic checks to make sure vehicles are roadworthy. Things to consider are:
- Tyres: Ensure tyre pressures are suitable for the load and check the condition of tyres, including the spare. Look out for cuts or wear across the whole tyre including sidewall.
- Engine oil: Check oil levels regularly and top up if needed. Take your car back to the garage if you’re topping up more than usual.
- Water: Always keep your screen wash topped up with a good ratio of water and screen wash to maximise the cleaning efficiency so you can clear debris or dirt off your windscreen easily.
- Lights: If your indicators, hazard lights, headlights, fog lights, reverse lights or brake lights are not functioning properly, you are putting yourself and your family at risk. In addition, your vehicle may fail its MoT.
- Fuel: Before setting out make sure you have enough fuel to get to your destination. Running out of fuel can put you, your family and other road users at risk unnecessarily.
Live traffic information can be found:
- via TrafficEngland.com
- on variable message signs
- by calling the National Highways Customer Contact Centre on 0300 123 5000
- following National Highways on Twitter
General enquiries
Members of the public should contact the National Highways customer contact centre on 0300 123 5000.
Media enquiries
Journalists should contact the National Highways press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer.