Families across the UK are getting away, or planning to get away for the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.
Millions of drivers are expected to hit the roads, causing travel chaos across Britain.
Motorists are being warned, however, of the increased risk of breakdowns over the weekend.
Breakdown cover provider Green Flag has revealed that a staggering 10 breakdowns every minute (56,200 breakdowns from Friday to Monday) are set to occur over the long weekend.
As the weather is predicted to worsen once again, Green Flag is expecting 4,669 motorists to break down due to flat batteries, while 5,126 tyre-related issues are set to disrupt drivers’ journeys.
A further 811 motorists are expected to break down due to brake-related issues.
Simon Henrick, Head of News at Green Flag, commented: “The Easter weekend means that we’ll see an influx of cars on the roads, as people prepare trips to visit family and friends across the country.
“With more traffic than usual, it’s no surprise that a high number of breakdowns are forecast, and this is set to be worsened due to the return of bad weather.
“Drivers need to be aware that many breakdowns are avoidable if people ensure their cars are road ready before they embark on long journeys.
“We’re encouraging drivers to thoroughly inspect their vehicles before leaving home.”
In order to help drivers reach their destinations safely, Green Flag has released the following common sense tips:
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. Make sure you have breakdown cover. If you’re travelling abroad make sure your cover extends to your trip away. If it doesn’t, you may need to arrange separate cover
5. 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
6. Keep some coins or a phonecard in the car in case you need to call for help and there’s no mobile phone signal
7. Make sure your phone battery is topped up – think about buying an in-car charger just in case you need it
8. 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
9. Carry a red warning triangle at all times
10. Always keep some warm clothes, a rug and some chocolate in the car in case you get stuck in cold conditions for a long time
