As Brits embark on the first school run and, for some, the first back to work drive of 2019, breakdown cover provider Green Flag is urging drivers to check their vehicles before making their journeys, with tens of thousands of breakdowns predicted throughout the day.

Green Flag is expecting an 11 per cent increase in incidents on the first Monday after the festive period, with around 28,981 breakdowns and 6,373 flat batteries* set to cause havoc on the roads for motorists.

Simon Henrick, Head of News at Green Flag, commented: “It’s hard enough getting back into a routine after the festive period, so the last thing drivers want is to deal with a breakdown on the first Monday of the year.

“To avoid car faults and breakdowns, we’re encouraging drivers to carry out safety checks before hitting the road.  The roads are likely to be busier than they have in previous weeks, as everyone gets back to the grind and with cold weather setting in, it’s important to be extra vigilant and safe on the roads.”

Green Flag has issued some easy and helpful common sense tips to bear in mind ahead of a journey this January:

1. Walk around the car and look for any signs of potential trouble, especially tyres and lights
2. Check tyre pressures, spare included
3. Check all fluid levels and top up if necessary
4. Keep a road map in the car so you’ll be able to explain where you are when you call for help. Don’t rely on the map on your phone – you won’t always have signal
5. Make sure your phone battery is topped up – think about buying an in-car charger just in case you need it
6. Have the number for your emergency breakdown provider handy – you’ll usually find it on your policy certificate so you could keep this in the glove box
7. Carry a red warning triangle at all times
8. Always keep some water and snacks in the car, in case you get stuck for a long time

Winter Weather Driving Tips

1. Check your speed and use gentle driver inputs - even if the roads have been gritted they’re likely to be slippery.
2. Give more warning than usual to other drivers - when turning, stopping or changing lane.
3. Keep plenty of distance between cars - you never know when you'll hit an icy patch. If you pass the same landmarks as the car in front of you within three seconds, you’re following too closely.
4. Check whether your car has ABS anti-lock brakes. In the unlikely event that it doesn’t, pump the brake pedal slowly to prevent the wheels locking up and skidding.
5. Be extra-wary of black ice. It’s an invisible danger that can catch out even the most careful driver.
6. Approach corners at a steady speed, in as low a gear as possible. Don't touch the clutch unless it’s absolutely necessary, steer smoothly and avoid braking on bends.
7. Make sure all passengers are wearing seat belts.
8. Ensure you’re familiar with your car’s ventilation system to prevent windows from steaming up. Air conditioning will keep windows free from mist and condensation.

 

For more information about how to make sure your car is road ready visit www.greenflag.com

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Notes to Editors:

*Stats based on internal data. Forecast based on the previous first Monday back to school.

About Green Flag

With over 40 years' experience, Green Flag provides customers with breakdown cover 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Customers have access to a network of breakdown operators across the UK and mainland Europe (Euro Plus cover required).

Green Flag Motoring Assistance is underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No 1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

Green Flag and U K Insurance Limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc.

Customers can find out more about Green Flag products or get a quote by calling 0345 246 1557, connecting via the Green Flag Rescue Me Application, or visiting www.greenflag.com