Petrol and diesel drivers face huge £2,500 fine when trying to save fuel next week

Millions of drivers are risking serious fines and dramatic consequences for their motoring habits when driving this half term, fresh data has found.

Research shows that about half of UK motorists are expecting to travel during the school holiday break next week, in the final pause before the summer holidays.

Many are planning or considering family road trips (45 per cent), preparing for longer journeys (23 per cent) and shorter trips (27 per cent).

However, a staggering 26 per cent admitted that they are more likely to accidentally speed when they have children in their cars.

TRENDING

Stories

Videos

Your Say

In a bid to mitigate expensive petrol and diesel prices, almost one in five said they have tried to go over the speed limit in hopes of slashing their fuel consumption.

This is despite experts warning that driving at quicker speeds can contribute to vehicles using more fuel, given the additional drag on the vehicle.

Official estimates from the Department for Transport show that cars will use around 10 per cent less fuel when driven at 50mph rather than 62mph.

Similarly, a reduction in speed from 68mph to 50mph can slash fuel consumption by 20 per cent, while the "optimal" speed for HGVs is below 50mph.

While motorists should always adhere to speed limits, data shows that they can reduce their fuel consumption when driving in a smooth manner.

Erratic driving, including aggressive acceleration, speeding and unnecessary idling, will all contribute to greater fuel use.

Speeding could also lead to them facing hefty fines, especially if they are caught breaking limits on motorways.

The minimum fine for speeding is a £100 fine and three penalty points added to a licence, while fines of £2,500 or a disqualification can be handed out if they are found guilty of speeding at court.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

• Ford announces new European car plans after huge £14billion electric vehicle write-off
• Blue Badge parking approvals surge for 'hidden disabilities' including ADHD and anxiety
• Rachel Reeves set to axe fuel duty hike soon after protests from petrol and diesel drivers

It comes as drivers face expensive fuel prices at the pumps, given the continued crisis in the Middle East and its impact on global oil prices.

Motorists are currently paying 158.24p per litre for petrol, while diesel drivers are paying 186.15p, although this could change soon.

Experts have forecast that petrol, diesel and premium fuels could all get more expensive in the near future as President Donald Trump continues to comment on the Iran war.

Although prices have fallen slightly since they peaked in mid-April, there are fears that costs at the pump will increase again in the coming days and weeks.

With millions of drivers expecting to take a road trip or travel longer distances than normal, motorists should ensure they are saving money when filling up.

Motorway service stations are consistently the most expensive options for petrol and diesel across the country as companies take advantage of the captive audience.

Data from RAC Fuel Watch shows that motorists will be forking out more than 20p extra per litre for petrol, while diesel drivers can expect average costs of £2.03.

If people are planning to head on a long journey, they should fill up at a comparatively cheaper petrol station before heading off.

Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter