Beware of motor breakdowns this festive season
As the nation gears up for the festive season, moneysupermarket.com urges motorists to give a second thought to their motor vehicle and take care behind the wheel.
With a third (33 per cent) of serious or fatal motor accidents taking place in the dark, and almost 4,500 accidents last year happening in snowy and icy conditions, the UK's leading price comparison site reminds drivers to be prepared for the effects of hazardous winter weather conditions.
moneysupermarket.com found UK breakdown cover is available from as little as £30.25 a year with RescueMyCar.com and £32 a year with First Call. These policies include features such as roadside repair and recovery to the nearest garage or any UK destination, alternative travel and accommodation costs, and an excess of £40. Other policies from providers such as StartRescue.co.uk, The Green Insurance Company and Insurance Choice, have no excess, showing it is always worthwhile scouring the small print to ensure you are getting the best deal for your circumstances.
Steve Sweeney, head of motor insurance at moneysupermarket.com said: "While there is no good time to suffer a vehicle breakdown it is especially worrying at this time of year with nights drawing in earlier and temperatures dropping. Therefore comprehensive motor breakdown cover is a must for motorists to avoid being stranded in the cold. With comprehensive cover available for such competitive prices, it really is a price well worth paying for the peace of mind that you will be rescued if your car does grind to a halt.
"I advise motorists to make regular checks to their vehicles to avoid being a victim of a breakdown. Taking regular precautionary measures such as checking the oil level, anti-freeze, hazard lights, and tyres for tread depth and pressure, and stowing a spare tyre in the boot of your car are a good idea. It is also essential your vehicle holds items such as a torch, reflective triangle sign, high-visibility jacket, first aid kit and jump leads."
Steve Sweeney continued: "It is worth remembering however, that no matter how well you look after your car and how carefully you drive, you cannot guarantee you will never break down. Drivers should ensure they are prepared for this, and also be aware of other, possibly less responsible drivers around them."
moneysupermarket.com's top winter motoring tips:
Regularly check the oil level, anti-freeze, hazard lights and tyres for tread depth and pressure. Check the spare tyre is in good condition too.
Have the essentials in your car, such as a torch, reflective triangle sign, high-visibility jacket, first aid kit and jump leads.
Keep adequate distance from the vehicle in front and take particular care to look out for pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists.
In cold or icy conditions, drive carefully and ensure you don't accelerate, brake or take sharp corners suddenly.
Make sure your car battery is adequately charged and up to the task.