Driver advice for dover delays

Holidaymakers taking the ferry at Dover this week faced 12-mile tailbacks and waits of up to 15 hours as French authorities imposed additional security checks in the wake of terror attacks.

British border force officials have now been drafted in to assist French police in Calais, but those using the port over the coming weeks should ensure they are prepared for delays.

Kent police have warned travellers to expect delays over the next few weeks. With the prospect of long waits on the approach to Dover, motorists are advised to carry extra food and, in particular, water. The effect of dehydration on drivers has been shown to be equivalent to drinking and driving – a problem exacerbated by long motorway journeys in a hot country.

Researchers found that mild dehydration increases driver errors during a prolonged, monotonous driving task. The effect on the motorists tested by Loughborough University was equivalent to driving at the drink drive limit (blood alcohol content of approximately 0.08%) or while sleep deprived.

Studies were first carried out on men, who drank 200 ml of water every hour. On the dehydration test day, the same subjects consumed only 25 ml an hour – the equivalent of a few sips.

When dehydrated, the drivers were more likely to drift, brake late, and touch the rumble strip.

Keep a bottle of water in your car and do not wait until you feel thirsty before you drink
Drink the equivalent of one glass of water every hour you drive
Make stops – it’s a chance to have a drink and rest

European breakdown cover from the ETA

With English-speaking helplines and assistance available 24/7 you can rest assured that help is at hand should you break down abroad while driving in Europe.

Providing that your vehicle is less than 20 years old, and your trip no longer than 31 days, then you’re eligible for cover.