Check before you travel this winter

With freezing conditions an almost daily occurrence at the moment, the Highways Agency has launched a new campaign to highlight the possible consequences of not planning ahead when travelling in severe weather.

The Agency's research shows that a large majority of male travellers (62%) would carry on with their journey regardless of hearing a severe weather warning and that women are statistically more likely to take provisions such as a blanket or bottled water in case they encounter weather-related problems

Over 450 large posters are being put up in 115 motorway service areas across England to promote the Highways Agency's campaign, and to demonstrate that a few simple checks and some preparation can help avoid disaster. By carrying warm clothes and an emergency pack, including food and water, boots, de-icer, a torch, and a spade if snow is forecast, the worst consequences of breaking down or getting stuck can be easily reduced or even avoided completely.

Although the campaign is aimed primarily at men aged 25-44 as the largest single group of users of motorways and major 'A' roads, 44% of women also said that they would continue their journey regardless - meaning that of the total survey of 1,288 people, over half would not change their plans after hearing a severe weather warning. Women were however more likely to cancel their journey - 27 per cent compared with only 17 per cent of men. Interestingly, of those who would travel regardless, 31 per cent said that travelling with children would change their decision.

Worryingly, a third of those interviewed said that they would not make any checks to their vehicle before leaving. The most common checks made were of anti-freeze and water levels.

Of the 53 per cent who said they would travel regardless of hearing a severe weather warning, 15% said that they would take no extra items with them. The most popular item was de-icer or an ice scraper (69%) and over half (53%) stated that they would pack warm clothes.

Derek Turner, Director of Network Operations for the Highways Agency, said:

"Working closely with specialist forecasters from the Met Office, the Highways Agency plays an essential role during the winter months by tackling snow and ice, and warning drivers of severe weather.

"While we're ready for winter, we want drivers and passengers to be ready too. We recognise that travel can be essential so if you do decide to continue with your journey then please make sure you are prepared for the conditions - being caught out by cold weather, strong winds or heavy rain isn't nice, especially if you've broken down. Drivers need to be prepared by making simple vehicle checks, carrying an emergency severe weather kit. You should also get valuable information on your journey before you leave."

With Highways Agency traffic information now available on both the Agency's own Traffic England website and Google Maps(tm) it's easier than ever to get the up-to-date travel information you need to plan your journey before you leave and avoid the worst of the severe weather.

Information is also available via the Agency's own DAB digital radio station "Traffic Radio" or by calling 08700 660 115. When you take a break from your journey you can also check the latest conditions using either the Highways Agency's mobile website or a Highways Agency Information Point, available at many service areas.