Danger in the fast lane – beware flying kayaks, sledges and bicycles

• Camping gear, a roof box, sleeping bag, backpack, roof rack, bike rack, bicycles, rubber dinghy, kayaks, sledge and box of toys are just some of the items authorities have cleared from motorways
• 21,774 incidents of dangerous road obstruction, causing lane closures and havoc on England’s motorways were recorded last year
• Green Flag calls on motorists to check that items are securely attached to their vehicles before hitting the motorway this half term

New analysis¹ by breakdown provider Green Flag reveals the frightening obstacle course drivers must navigate on the motorway. Kayaks, a rubber dinghy, sledge and a box of toys are just some of the items found obstructing motorways, as drivers fail to adequately secure their belongings. Other items found strewn across motorways include camping gear, a roof box, sleeping bag, backpack, roof rack, bike rack and bicycles.

Items in the road are not only dangerous but also can cause traffic chaos and lane closures. National Highways data shows that dangerous obstructions resulted in 21,774 recorded lane impacts² last year, where the capacity of one or more lanes was reduced or where there was deemed to be a risk to road users. In half (49 per cent) of cases the obstruction resulted in lanes closures, while a third (32 per cent) caused a rolling road closure, where a section of the road was closed.

Breakdown provider Green Flag is calling on motorists to check their cars to ensure that roof boxes and racks, alongside with bike holders are securely fitted before hitting the motorway this half term. Drivers setting off on road trips should also make sure that they check their vehicles for any damage and problems before they set off. National Highways data shows more than a quarter (26 per cent) of dangerous road obstructions were caused by vehicle parts and accessories, and tyres last year.

Table one: Five most common types of road debris causing lane impacts such as lane closures

Source: Green Flag 2024

Katie Lomas, Managing Director at Green Flag, commented: 

“As a driver you certainly don’t expect to come across a tent on the road. Obstructions on motorways can cause drivers to switch lanes quickly, brake sharply at short notice or sometimes even stop. Hitting any type of road debris can easily result in an accident or damage to a vehicle, so it’s important that drivers stay alert and always maintain a safe distance when driving on motorways or major roads. Those travelling with kit strapped to the car, risk losing thousands of pounds of equipment to the roadside scrapheap and could endanger other drivers if it isn’t strapped down properly.”

Easy steps for drivers to follow when preparing for a long car journey:

1.      Ensure roof boxes, roof racks, and bike racks, are suitable for your vehicle make and model and that they are correctly fitted. Tighten fastenings and use straps to secure any items such as bikes and equipment you have on your car.

2.      Regularly service your vehicle to ensure your car is in prime condition for driving.

3.      Check your tyres, both for tyre pressure (including the spare if you have one) and tyre tread. Tyres do have their own built-in tread wear indicators, but this can also be checked by using a 20 pence coin; if the outer band on the coin is visible when placing the coin in the groove between the treads, it means they’ve worn too low, and the tyres need replacing

4.      Check all fluid levels, making sure to top up if necessary and carry water, oil, and screen wash with you just in case.

5.      Make sure you have enough fuel to get you to your destination and back, or plan your fuel stops in advance if you’re going on a longer journey. If you drive an electric vehicle, make sure your car is fully charged before you head off and locate charging points on the route.

6.      Make sure your phone battery is topped up prior to your journey and pack a portable charger.

7.      Make sure you have the appropriate breakdown cover to ensure you’re covered in the event of a breakdown situation.

- ENDS -

Notes to Editors:

1. Freedom of Information Act requests made to National Highways, The Welsh Government, and Transport Scotland in July 2024, requesting road obstructions and associated lane impact data for 2022 and 2023. The Welsh Government and Transport Scotland data was not directly comparable with that provided by National Highways. A breakdown of the types of debris on the roads was only provided for some roads.

Examples of debris listed come from analysis of 2022 and 2023 data on the types of debris found on the M8, M74 and M73.

2. A lane impact results from any incident where the capacity (of one or more running lanes) has been reduced or where there is deemed to be a risk to a road user, such as debris. An impact may or may not result in a full carriageway or motorway closure. A lane impact can relate to a single lane that has been closed for a period of time.  A lane impact is recorded as one impact whether it affects one or both sides of the carriageway i.e. it is not directional.

For further information please contact:

Unni Henry

Green Flag PR Manager

Unni.henry@directlinegroup.co.uk

About Green Flag 

With over 50 years' experience, Green Flag provides customers with breakdown cover 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Customers have access to a network of breakdown operators across the UK and mainland Europe (Euro Plus cover required). 

Green Flag is underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No 1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.   

Green Flag and U K Insurance Limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc.   

Customers can find out more about Green Flag products or get a quote by calling 0345 246 1557, connecting via the Green Flag Rescue Me Application, or visiting www.greenflag.com