RAC predicts ‘Black Friday’ as millions take to the road

Millions of motorists are set to take to the roads this evening (Friday 17 July) with the RAC predicting gridlock and delays for many on the busiest routes.

The combination of families setting off to begin a holiday as soon as the school bell rings, the usual commuter traffic, plus rumours of a further heat wave next week, means that Britain is gearing up for its very own ‘Black Friday’ on the roads – a term typically used to describe the day when French autoroutes descend into gridlock with summer holiday traffic.

RAC data shows Saturday (18 July) will see even more people on the road, with 2.9 million getting behind the wheel, but with journeys likely to be more spaced out throughout the day traffic volumes, motorists might have a slightly better chance of escaping the queues.

In total, the RAC estimates some 7.5 million motorists will be packing the boot and setting off to enjoy a break between Friday 17 and Sunday 19 July.

RAC head of external affairs Pete Williams said: “Our data shows that summer holiday traffic is going to be concentrated on our roads this coming weekend, causing gridlock and delays for many on the busiest ‘getaway’ routes. We’re expecting ‘Black Friday’ to be particularly hectic, as the majority of families will be squeezing their journeys into the end of the day.

“Our advice is to try to leave first thing on Friday, or set the alarm clocks early on Saturday or Sunday and get away before traffic builds.

Anticipated worst times to travel on the roads:

• Friday 17 July between 4pm and 9pm



• Saturday 18 July between 9am and 4pm.