RAC comments on new road traffic estimates released today

Following the release of road traffic estimates by the Department for Transport that show traffic is at an all-time high, RAC spokesman Simon Williams said: 

"With traffic levels at a record high level it seems that the UK's online economy is thriving as van traffic continues to rise. Looking over a 20-year period there is a staggering 70% increase in van traffic which must be proof that the nation's ever increasing internet shopping habit is changing the type of traffic on our roads.

"While car and taxi traffic has risen by 1.3% to a new high, it is concerning to see there has been a notable increase in rural A-road and minor road use. This could be a sign that major routes are struggling to cope with the volume of vehicles and motorists are seeking alternative routes to avoid jams. This is something that we will need to keep a close eye on to see if this becomes a clear trend."