Check your car before you travel, AA advises

9 April 2021

Eight in 10 drivers are planning car journeys in anticipation of the next phase of the Government’s lockdown easing roadmap, an AA survey* shows.

A snap poll of 856 drivers revealed that 83% are planning a journey by car on or after 12th of April, when further leisure activities will be allowed in England. This could equate to more than 27 million drivers on the road around that time.

Of those who plan to travel, the most popular reason is to eat or drink outdoors at a restaurant, café or pub, with around a quarter (24%) of drivers looking forward to al-fresco dining or drinks.

A similar number (23%) will be heading out for long-awaited haircuts, while more than a fifth (21%) will treat themselves to some retail therapy at non-essential shops.

With cold weather forecast, main roads into towns and cities are likely to see more traffic as drivers head to indoor shopping centres, while routes to outdoor leisure and beauty spots could be comparatively quieter.

Ben Sheridan, AA Patrol of the Year, gives his top tips for getting back on the road:

“We’re all looking forward to that feeling of being back on the road and with leisure facilities reopening from Monday, many drivers will want to spring back into action. But cooler temperatures may mean dining outdoors has to wait a little longer, and overnight frosts can affect the car too.

“Many cars will have had little use over recent months and the last thing you want after lockdown is another long walk, so take some time to check it’s up to the job before you need it. It’s a good idea to carry out regular maintenance and ensure you have breakdown cover in place with the app or number on your phone.”

Further advice on maintenance checks can be found here

The AA also recommends checking traffic conditions for your journey before setting off. Live traffic updates are available via AA Roadwatch.

* An AA ‘Passenger Seat’ poll received 856 responses between 31 March and 7 April 2021.