SOUTH Western Ambulance Service is preparing for what is expected to be a busy bank holiday weekend and is urging drivers to take extra care on the roads.

The ambulance service is calling on drivers to remain patient on the roads, as an influx of visitors take advantage of the last bank holiday weekend before the school term begins.

A spokesman for SWASFT said: “Every year front-line crews from across the trust attend thousands of road traffic collisions and many of these accidents could have been avoided if motorists carried out a few simple checks on their vehicles.”

They are urging drivers to check their tyres have enough pressure and tread and that stopping distances increase on wet roads.

The spokesman added: “Ambulance crews are often on the front line when it comes to dealing with the aftermath of an incident on the roads. Every year we attend thousands of preventable incidents where an increased awareness of road safety would make a real difference.

“The trust is urging drivers to slow down and take care on the roads, especially if you are a visitor to the area and are unfamiliar with the region. It may also be worth keeping an eye on the weather conditions and planning your trip accordingly.”