Motorists told not to get behind the wheel before 7pm on friday

Motorists are being advised to avoid setting off in their cars before 7pm this weekend, as a late May Bank Holiday travel alert has been sounded. England is bracing for significant delays

with an estimated 17.9 million drivers and road users expected to take to the streets. The RAC has issued a warning that each day could witness 3.4 million journeys on Friday and Saturday,

May 23 and May 24, as people seek to make the most of the extended weekend. The number is predicted to decrease slightly on Sunday, May 25, with around 2.7 million trips anticipated, reports

Birmingham Live. However, the figure is set to rise again to 3 million on Bank Holiday Monday, May 26, coinciding with the commencement of half-term. Over the course of the weekend, up to

5.4 million journeys could occur, according to the RAC's forecast. Yet, travellers can potentially dodge the congestion by postponing their departure. A mere three per cent of drivers

are planning to travel between 7pm and 1am after the evening rush hour, as noted by the motoring organisation and roadside assistance experts. RAC Mobile Mechanic, Aaron Bryan, commented:

"Our research shows it really is best to leave as early or late as possible this bank holiday weekend, as the majority of motorists are planning to set off in the morning." He

added, "While Devon and Cornwall remain some of the most popular destinations for summer getaways, many other major routes across the country could be hit by increased traffic – not

least the M25 which so many drivers use to reach the coast and the South East." Aaron Bryan from RAC advised: "These stretches are likely to be equally as busy on Friday 30 May

when drivers use the same roads for return journeys." He also mentioned that an RAC Mobile Mechanic could help motorists before setting off: "Alternatively, an RAC Mobile Mechanic

can check any battery or brake pad issues before you travel, along with diagnosing any faults signalled by dashboard warning lights." Bryan added some helpful tips for preparation:

"There's no need to squeeze in a last-minute trip to the garage either, as we can come to you at home or work. In hot temperatures, it's wise to carry lots of water, food and

a tool kit, with jump leads, torch and some first aid basics." And in case things take a turn for the worse: "In the worst-case scenario of a breakdown, make sure you've got

an umbrella and sunscreen to provide shade for all passengers when awaiting assistance."