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One in nine have broken down in Europe

11th July 2014 Print

Holidaymakers driving abroad this summer are being urged to prepare for their trip as the AA reveals that one in nine drivers (11%) have broken down in Europe.
 
Previous AA research shows that approximately 3.6million drivers plan to take a foreign holiday this year and drive there from the UK while 17% will hire a car at their destination.
 
Rosie Sanderson, Head of AA International Motoring said: “The risk of breaking down in Europe is every bit as real as it is in the UK, especially if the vehicle is only used as a ‘run-around’ for short journeys at home.
 
“It can be especially disruptive – not to mention stressful - for those who break down hundreds of miles from the channel coast and may not speak the local language or aren’t sure what to do or where to go.”
 
Last year the AA rescued over 5500 members in Europe saving them over £3million: the average cost of a breakdown in France is around £650, and over £1000 for those venturing further east to countries such as Romania and Ukraine.
 
The AA was also able to directly organise hire cars or other travel arrangements and accommodation for members in 70% of cases.
 
Ms Sanderson advises motorists plan their trip carefully and don’t leave their preparations until the last-minute: “It’s a good idea to check your insurance before you go becausesome car insurers may not offer the same level of cover overseas that you currently get in the UK, while others might need you to inform them that you’re taking your car away. Of course, make sure your EHIC is up to date, as well as organising travel insurance as early as you can.
 
“Driving abroad is going to be very different to that in UK and it is definitely a good idea to check on what to expect in advance. In France, for example, you’re required to carry a breathalyser and a high visibility jacket.”
 
The AA reports an increase in the take-up of European Breakdown Cover as summer is the most popular time to drive to Europe. As such, the AA is currently offering all customers who take out European Breakdown Cover the chance to win an AA Travel Currency Card preloaded with £500 holiday spending money which can be used anywhere you see the Mastercard logo. There are five cards to give away, with one winner drawn each fortnight.