Drivers issued half-term holiday warning as motorway problem skyrockets

3 weeks ago 4

Drivers have been urged to remain sensible this week, as cases of speeding during half-term holidays have increased by up to 59 percent.

10:07, Sun, Oct 27, 2024 | UPDATED: 10:11, Sun, Oct 27, 2024

Aerial view of traffic moving along the M32

Life360 highlighted that cases of speeding often increase over the half-term holidays. (Image: Getty)

The family safety and connection app Life360 has warned motorists to take care behind the wheel over the half-term holidays, sharing the worst hotspots for speeding.

With the half-term holidays underway for most of the UK, many families will take to the roads for fun days out and trips to see loved ones elsewhere in the country.

However, using data from the October half-term break in 2023, Life360 found that many areas see sharp increases in speeding cases during the holiday.

Of these, Northampton saw the biggest rise, with cases of speeding drivers increasing by 59 percent compared to the previous week.

Part of the East Midlands, many families visit Northamptonshire county for its scenic views and rich history. However, during the week, cases of speeding recorded by Life360 were up 42 percent more than the national average.

Empty street and All Saints Church, Northampton

In 2023, Northampton saw the biggest jump in speeding offences during the October half-term break. (Image: Getty)

Life360's list also featured several other major cities, such as Colchester, Derby, and Bristol.

London and Edinburgh were also among the worst areas for speeding during the half-term holidays for 2023, both experiencing a 34 percent increase in cases.

The company stated that the increase in speeding cases is partially caused by an increase in younger and more inexperienced drivers on the roads and motorists travelling to unfamiliar areas.

Crowded section of traffic on the M1 motorway

Whilst speeding fines can depend on the road and speed limit, drivers could be charged up to £2,500. (Image: Getty)

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No matter where a driver is visiting over the half-term holidays, it is a good idea to look closely for speed limits and stick to them to prevent complications.

Whilst it will depend on how fast drivers are caught travelling and the road they use, speeding fines start at £100 and could go into the thousands, particularly if the offence took place on a motorway.

Motorists could also receive several penalty points on their licence, increasing the cost of their car insurance and bringing them closer to a driving ban.