RAC comments on provisional 2015 road traffic estimates

RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis said: “Our roadside patrols handled a fifth more breakdowns yesterday than what's normal for this time in June, with London, Essex, Kent and Sussex all seeing the biggest increases in vehicles failing in the hot weather. Top faults included tyres – with blowouts more common in the heat as pressure in the rubber builds – batteries and, of course, overheated engines. Today is looking just as busy as temperatures climb even higher.

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RAC breakdown spokesperson Simon Williams said: "Tuesday was a very busy day for breakdowns with our patrols finishing the day 20% busier than normal for late June and Wednesday is looking even more challenging as more cars are succumbing to the extreme heat. We strongly urge people to avoid driving unless it's essential, as breaking down in these conditions is potentially life threatening if they aren't properly prepared. Being stuck at the side of a hot road without enough water and some form of shade is very serious. For this reason our patrols are also carrying extra bottles of water to give to broken-down members.