A safe journey starts with good planning. Before setting off, check your route, weather conditions, and for any roadworks or delays. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition fuelled, tyre-checked, and all fluids topped up. Allow extra time so you’re not rushing, and schedule breaks on longer trips to avoid fatigue. At Motor Bridge, we believe preparation is key to a smooth and stress-free journey because the safer the plan, the safer the drive.
At Motor Bridge, we believe safe journeys begin well before you hit the road. Whether you’re heading out for your daily commute, a weekend getaway, or a long-haul drive, planning your journey properly can reduce stress, improve safety, and help you arrive efficiently and on time.
Smart planning isn’t just about choosing the fastest route — it’s about making informed decisions that protect you, your passengers, and other road users.
UK roads can be unpredictable — from congestion and roadworks to poor weather and unexpected closures. A bit of preparation helps reduce your risk of:
Delays or detours
Fatigue and stress
Breakdowns or running low on fuel
Accidents caused by poor timing or weather
According to National Highways, 1 in 10 breakdowns happen because of simple preventable issues, such as tyre problems or running out of fuel.
Yet many of these incidents could be avoided with a few quick checks before setting off.
Here’s how you can be a smarter motorist when planning your next journey:
Use trusted navigation tools or travel information services such as:
Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates
Look out for:
Roadworks or closures
Smart motorway zones
Weather warnings or major events
Complete a quick “FORCES” check:
Fuel – do you have enough for the full journey?
Oil – is the level within safe limits?
Rubber – are your tyres properly inflated and undamaged?
Coolant – is it topped up?
Electrics – check your lights, indicators, and battery.
Screen wash – keep your windscreen clear and smear-free.
Avoid peak times if possible. Early morning or mid-afternoon journeys tend to be quieter than rush hours. Allow for breaks on longer drives to avoid fatigue.
Use in-car infotainment systems, radio traffic updates (such as BBC Radio 2 travel), or apps to stay aware of real-time conditions. If driving on smart motorways, watch for overhead signs with speed limits or lane closures.
Always carry:
A phone charger or power bank
High-vis vest and warning triangle
Bottled water and snacks for long trips
Sat nav or printed map in case of tech issues
Smarter motoring means more than planning a safe journey -it’s about staying calm, alert, and adaptable during your journey. By combining technology with awareness and good habits, you can:
Use fuel more efficiently
Avoid unnecessary braking or speeding
Keep passengers safe and comfortable
Reduce your environmental impact
Whether you’re travelling 10 or 200 miles, preparation is key. At Motor Bridge, we encourage all road users to embrace smarter, safer journeys by planning a safe journey ahead, maintaining their vehicle, and driving with care.
Take a look at our Resting Places and Hotels section for solutions while planning a safe journey.
Disclaimer:
While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the information we provide for planning a safe journey, it is intended for general guidance only. We make every effort to keep our content current and correct, but we cannot guarantee that all information is free from errors or omissions. Therefore, we accept no responsibility for any loss, damage, or inconvenience caused as a result of reliance on material found on this platform. Always consult official sources or professional advice where appropriate.
