Abstract
This paper describes the results of using on a day to day basis the ALERT-C protocol, developed for RDS-TMC, in a new UK driver information system developed by AA Roadwatch. The paper makes recommendations for improvements to the ALERT-C protocol as a result of this experience, particularly in terms of rationalising the current wide choice of event codes and allowing for events that affect both carriageways. By archiving all information centrally, the AA has built up a large database of historic information. This has been analysed and interpreted and so the paper also discusses interesting findings about congestion in the UK and describes an innovative way of comparing congestion. (A)