Highways England has announced it is lifting more than 300 miles of roadworks for the Easter getaway to improve holiday journeys for millions of motorists and passengers.

Almost 98 per cent of motorways and strategic A roads will be roadworks-free over the Easter bank holiday, to help ensure motorists and their passengers can enjoy journeys with as little disruption as possible.

Highways England is also reminding drivers to check their vehicles before they set off, as recent statistics showed that almost half of all breakdowns are caused by mechanical problems which could be avoided with simple checks. Nearly a quarter are caused by tyre problems.

Highways England Chief Executive, Jim O’Sullivan said: “I want all drivers to arrive at their destinations safely. We are removing almost all of our roadworks across the country to make journeys easier for people this Easter and we are urging drivers to make sure they are ready by checking their fuel, tyres, and lights. Anyone who runs out of fuel is putting themselves and other road users, including their own passengers at risk. With a few simple checks that risk can be overcome and everyone will be safer.”

View the Highways England vehicle checks campaign video

Drivers are urged to:

  • Check fuel: make sure you have enough to get to your destination
  • Check tyres: before setting off on a long/significant journey, check your tyre pressure and the condition of your tyres, including the spare; look out for cuts or wear and make sure the tyres have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, which is the legal limit
  • Check engine oil: use your dipstick to check oil before any long journey, and top up if needed; take your car back to the garage if you’re topping up more than usual
  • Check water: to ensure you have good visibility, always keep your screenwash topped up so you can Clear debris or dirt off your windscreen
  • Check lights: If your indicators, hazard lights, headlights, fog lights, reverse lights or brake lights are not functioning properly, you are putting yourself at risk; in addition, light malfunctions can be a reason for your vehicle to fail its MOT