Route planning

Route planning can be as simple as checking the map to determine the shortest route between two points. Or a case of following designated routes for, let's say, wide loads escorted by the police or multiple drops in the high street.

There are many sources of practical help on the market, which look at route planning and checking traffic congestion and satellite navigation systems may be of some assistance. Here are a few pointers when planning your route and some respected sources for getting you to your destination.

Route planning pointers

• The route should be planned to maximise safety and minimise time spent driving
• Ensure that the roads selected are suitable for the vehicle used i.e take sufficient account of overhead restrictions e.g. bridges, as well as tunnels and other hazards which may present dangers for long vehicles in particular.
• Select the journey bearing in mind, the time of day. i.e. avoid schools at start and end of school day

Route planners

• Telematics - a small device records where, when and how far a car has travelled. Fitted as standard in some vehicles
• Radio broadcasts e.g. national and local radio
• ITV Teletext page 160
• BBC Ceefax page 431
• RAC Route Planner - www.rac.co.uk*
• AA Route Planner - www.theaa.com*

* When visiting the above websites you will be leaving Norwich Union's Roadsense website. Norwich Union is not responsible for the content of external websites.