Don't let a trip on the road turn into a driving nightmare

Brits holidaying in the UK or Europe this August Bank Holiday should make sure they are not underinsured, warns moneysupermarket.com.

With the price of petrol falling even more Brits may be inclined to hit the roads over the long August weekend. However, whether holidaying in the UK or Europe, people must ensure they have adequate motor and travel insurance.

Driving in Europe

Research from the price comparison site reveals well over a third of drivers (39 per cent) are unaware their motor insurance may be automatically downgraded from fully comprehensive to third party when driving on the Continent.

Four of the UK's top ten leading motor insurers, including esure and Direct Line, automatically downgrade cover to third party only when wheels hit continental soil, leaving motorists liable for any damage to their own vehicle.

Peter Gerrard, head of insurance research at moneysupermarket.com, said: "If you normally have comprehensive car insurance, it will come as a shock if you are with one of those insurers who will downgrade your cover if driving in Europe. With third party only any damage to the car will leave you to foot the bill should you have an accident."

Motor breakdown

Breakdown cover is also a must for motorists, and with annual cover starting from as little as £694, there is no excuse to not take it out. It is important to not only choose a competitive policy but also one that is comprehensive for your needs. For example, people should check for added extras such as roadside assistance or a courtesy car.

To avoid spending your holiday stranded on the roadside, people should also consider call out times - current averages range from 35 minutes to one hour.

Peter Gerrard continued: "UK breakdown policies do not always remain valid if you to venture across the channel so Brits should ensure they are adequately covered. The last thing holiday-makers want is to spend time on their well-deserved break sitting on the side of the road or hit with an extortionate call-out fee should their vehicle break-down. Other precautions such as carrying the recommended breakdown equipment in your boot are also advisable."

Travel insurance

The one in seven (14 per cent) British holidaymakers who admit to never taking out travel insurance are taking a risk should they lose a valuable item or need medical attention. For Brits taking a break in the UK, a week's travel cover is available from £8.18 from Insurefor.com, for a family of four. Alternatively, a continental escape for a family can be covered from as little as £9.38 with Cheaper Travel Insurance.

Peter Gerrard continued: "Travel insurance is vital for claiming for lost or stolen personal possessions, cancellations, medical emergencies - events unfortunately not only limited to exotic locations. Whether it's a week on the Cornish coast or a break to Brittany, Brits should check the levels of cover on their policies are right for them."

For more information, visit moneysupermarket.com