Congestion on major roads has fallen as more motorists leave their cars at home because of soaring petrol prices (Telegraph).
The latest statistics released by the Highways Agency showed that 85.3% of car journeys on major trunk roads were completed ‘on time’ in April, 4% more than at the same time last year.
At the same time ONS, the Government statistics agency, released its own figures, based on data collected in late 2009, showing that 71% of people still commuted to work by car.
The Highways Agency employs number plate recognition cameras and road sensors to calculate journey times. It uses this data to calculate how long a journey should take.
While some delays can be attributed to weather and accidents, the key element in journey time is volume of traffic. According to the AA this has dropped as a result of the recession and soaring price of fuel.
Paul Watters, the AA’s head of public affairs, said: “The reports into congestion on motorways and A-roads continue to highlight the impact of high fuel prices and austerity on commuting and travel in the UK.
“Our surveys of thousands of its members show two-thirds of drivers are cutting back on car-use. It is a sad reflection of fewer people being able to afford higher prices that those who can pay these prices are enjoying faster travel times.”
Click here to read the full Telegraph report.
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