Thousands of British motorists will be taking to the road in the next few months, for the summer break. However, Tiscali's car insurance partner is warning that for many, the holiday season could spell disaster, with many cars not ready to face the hot summer weather, and many drivers ill equipped to deal with the very different continental driving laws.
We have put together the following advice to help holiday drivers avoid motoring mayhem:
- Make sure you’re aware of the driving laws of the country you are in such as speed limits, which are often different to those in the UK. Drink driving laws also vary and can be lower than in this country.
- Take out some form of breakdown cover before you set off. If you’re unfortunate enough to break down, you could find bringing the car back to the UK an expensive business if you don’t have the cover you need.
- Remember to carry your insurance certificate, vehicle registration document and a current tax disc and don’t forget to tell your insurance company the dates of your trip.
- Pack as lightly as possible to lessen the load on your car and to help save on fuel and make sure all items are secure so they don’t shift when you are on the move. Most importantly, make sure the drivers vision is not obstructed. Check your tyre pressures match the load of the car.
- Service your car properly, topping up all fluids such as engine oil, water, brake fluid and engine coolant. Check that all lights and wipers are working and that tyres are in good condition and at proper air pressure – including the spare.
- Fill up with fuel before you set off but don’t fill the fuel tank to the brim. In hot temperatures, the fuel will expand and if the tank is too full, it will overflow.
- Store an emergency kit in the boot including a flash light, jump leads and a reflective triangle, in case you do have to deal with a breakdown.
- Before you leave, try to plan your route and allow for regular breaks along the way.
Phil Loney, managing director, Lloyds TSB Insurance, said: “Thousands, if not millions of us take to our cars for the summer holidays. However, many drivers leave without making even the most basic preparations for their time on the road.
“Hopefully the advice we’re giving will help people plan their journeys to minimise the risk of things going wrong. But it goes without saying that the only really guard against potential problems is having full motor insurance.”
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