National Highways is urging motorists not to just take breaks, but to make them count. This summer, the agency is reminding drivers of the importance of taking a 15-minute break after two hours of driving.
Drivers are being encouraged to plan breaks that go beyond quick pit stops, such as exploring a nearby historic site, enjoying a scenic beauty spot, discovering a cultural landmark or simply recharging at a well-equipped service station.
Taking a break can be lifesaving as research reveals fatigue-related deaths and serious injuries rise by 59% in summer. Yet our latest survey shows just 4 in 10 (39%) say they would take a break due to driver tiredness. Similarly, nearly a third of drivers (29%) admit they didn’t factor in rest stops on their last long journey.
Regional differences in driver behaviour are clear. Drivers in the North East, North West, and South West are far more likely to take rest stops on long journeys, while drivers in the East Midlands recorded the lowest rate nationally. Similarly, when it comes to stopping due to tiredness, most motorists admit they would continue driving rather than take a break. Among those who would stop, the North East again leads, with 46% saying they would pull over if drowsy, compared to just 34% in Eastern England and 36% in London.
Sheena Hague, Director of Road Safety at National Highways, said:
“We all want to reach our destination quickly, especially when the excitement of a holiday awaits, but fatigue behind the wheel can be deadly. It’s not just about falling asleep, tiredness slows your reactions, clouds your judgement, and can lead to dangerous mistakes.
“That’s why we’re encouraging drivers to follow our advice by planning ahead, taking regular breaks and staying refreshed. This will help keep themselves and other road users safe while enjoying the rich heritage and natural beauty our country has to offer.”
This summer, National Highways will be rolling out a series of videos that spotlight inspiring locations just off the country’s most popular roads – helping drivers discover new places to take a meaningful break without straying too far from their route.
Just minutes from the motorway, there are free attractions like Leicestershire’s Bradgate Park off the M1 with its ancient oaks and rugged hills, or off the M5 is Cheltenham’s Pittville Park, home to lakeside walks and the iconic Pump Room. Near Bristol, Blaise Castle Estate blends parkland with an historic mansion. Elsewhere, Morecambe Bay delivers classic seaside charm and Royal Leamington Spa has elegant boulevards and award-winning gardens, providing a stylish setting for a pause.
Motorists can also visit nearby English Heritage sites like Kenilworth Castle off the M40 or Wrest Park near the M1, which boasts a 19th-century mansion and acres of gardens.
National Highways have launched a dedicated webpage that can be found via the following link: Summer T.R.I.P. where drivers can access maps highlighting recommended stop-off points across the country as well as practical tips to help plan safer, more enjoyable journeys.
Beth Stone, Head of Visitor Experience at English Heritage, said:
“Whether you’re off for a staycation or to visit family and friends please remember the importance of taking a break from driving. Stretch those legs and enjoy a well-deserved tea and a slice of cake in a beautiful spot, and discover the story of England at one of our beautiful heritage sites. We’ve got amazing places to visit across the country; whether that’s Bolsover Castle just off the M1 or Down House, close to the M25, there is so much to see and do.”
(Pic: National Highways)
