M49 Traffic

The M49 motorway is a short stretch of motorway in the United Kingdom, linking the M5 to the M4 motorways. It is one of the most congested roads in the country and was the first dual carriageway in England to charge a toll for car travel.

The M49 was opened in 1994, and is a total of 4.6 miles long. It runs between Junction 19 of the M4 near Bristol and Junction 20 of the M5 near Almondsbury. The motorway was planned to reduce traffic on the A403 and A4, which are both roads in this area.

Since it opened, the M49 has been the subject of numerous safety campaigns. This is due mostly to its traffic level, which often causes backups and delays. The safety record of the M49 has been improving over the last decade, with fatal collisions dropping by almost 25%. In 2019, 5 people were killed on the M49 and 39 people sustained serious injuries.

Safety campaigns in recent years have included implementing additional speed cameras and warning signs, as well as working with the community to raise awareness of the dangers of driving on the M49. The Highways Agency regularly reviews the safety record of the M49 and is implementing measures to ensure its continued safety.

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Please remember that it is against the law to use your mobile phone, tablet or any electronic device without a hands-free kit whilst driving. If you're caught by the police using any device that can send or receive data whilst driving or riding a motorcyle you'll get an automatic fixed penalty notice, 6 points on your licence and a fine of £200. A court could also disqualify you from driving.