National Highways has warned drivers to make sure they have enough fuel for their journey before heading out on England’s busiest roads to reduce the risk of unnecessary breakdowns.   

Over 6,000 fuel breakdowns took place on the strategic road network last year

Over 6,000 fuel breakdowns took place on the strategic road network last year, and road users are being urged to be aware of this and take no chances when filling up is involved.   

Alongside this, National Highways will soon trial a new ‘running out of fuel prevention programme’, which will study a specific section of motorway where breakdowns are comparatively common to inform future decisions regarding how to limit the number of drivers running out of fuel unexpectedly.   

Jeremy Phillips, head of road user safety at National Highways, said: “Running out of fuel is already responsible for thousands of issues on our network each year and we understand how the rise in the cost of living could lead to some motorists taking risks with the fuel they need for their journey. However, it’s vital that motorists start their journey only if they have sufficient fuel to complete it.  

“Also, we know that some breakdowns can’t always be predicted and by making sure people know what to do if they break down, we believe drivers will feel more confident and have more control.”   

The figures were released as National Highways launched the next phase of its breakdown campaign, which reminds motorists to “go left” if their vehicle develops a fault on the strategic road network, in particular on smart motorways.  

The multi-million-pound public information campaign, supported by partners across the recovery and breakdown industry, was launched in 2021 and the latest tranche will see a range of communications material released across a number of platforms, to raise awareness of best practice regarding road safety.   

There will also be guidance on how to avoid breaking down by carrying out basic vehicle checks.    

Advice on what to do if your vehicle develops a fault on motorways and major a-roads    

If your vehicle has a problem, or you get into trouble on a motorway, stay calm and try to exit at the next junction or motorway service area. If that’s not possible:  

• Put your left indicators on.  
• Move into the left lane.  
• Enter the next emergency area, or hard shoulder.  
• Put your hazard lights on.  
• Get behind a safety barrier where there is one – keep well away from moving traffic.  
• Call National Highways on 0300 123 5000, then a breakdown provider for help.  

For further advice about motorway driving and what to do in a breakdown, click here.