Warning as 1 in 10 parents plan to drive five hours without a rest break this half term

Polling commissioned by National Highways and Kwik Fit showed that compared to the average driver in England, those with children are more likely to set off late for their destination (23% for parents and 15% for the average driver) with 32% stating they are prepared to drive straight to their destination without a break due to having children in the car.

Winter getaway rush

More than half of parents (54%) also said they would not cancel a trip in severe weather if they had to drive to the airport for a flight and 17% are less likely to make vehicle checks before travelling due to having to remember passports, packing limits and sorting parking fees, with 27% stating irregular travel hours in the morning and late at night add to the challenges.

Falling short on extra checks

While winter weather conditions can pose extra risks, further polling reveals 63% of parent drivers in England are also unable to make basic tyre checks before travelling. In fact, 22% say they are unable to make any vehicle checks on their car, preferring to leave it to a professional.

Neglecting to check tyre pressure and tread can reduce traction, increase the risk of blowouts, lower fuel efficiency, cause uneven wear, and lead to longer stopping distances and a higher likelihood of skidding.

When it comes to preparations for longer family car trips:

· 68% of parent drivers don’t know how to check their windscreen wash

· 62% of parent drivers don’t know how to check their oil, which, if low, can lead to engine failure

· 13% of parent drivers don’t have a spare tire and wouldn’t know how to change it anyway

Sheena Hague, National Highways’ director of road safety said:

“Our message to families organising half term getaways is to plan ahead. There are simple time-saving checks you can make easily, summarised as T.R.I.P. Top-up, Rest, Inspect, Prepare.

"Before setting off, check the road conditions and weather and any potential disruptions. Have alternative routes in mind and if severe weather conditions like ice, rain or snow are predicted, consider leaving the day before and staying at an airport hotel."

Kwik Fit has joined the National Highways T.R.I.P. campaign and offers free vehicle checks as well as providing drivers with advice to help them carry out their own preparation.

Roger Griggs, communications director at Kwik Fit says: “It’s concerning to see how many drivers will be setting off on a family trip this half term without making the proper checks on their vehicle. Like with many things in life, planning ahead can avoid a lot of hassle down the line.

“Setting aside some time in advance of departure day to make some basic checks – particularly to tyres and fluids – can help stop problems arising. Flying with children can be stressful enough, the last thing families need at half term is to encounter delays before they’ve even got to the airport.”

For advice on pre-travel car checks, drivers can find a wide range of information at kwik-fit.com and can also book a free vehicle health check.

For more information on the TRIP campaign, visit https://nationalhighways.co.uk/road-safety/trip/