'Thousands of Britons' set to hit the road minus breakdown cover

Date: 20/4/2011

Roadside assistance and vehicle breakdown cover is something that more than a million Britons are prepared to risk going without as they get behind the wheel over the forthcoming bank holidays.

According to Santander, of the eight million UK motorists planning to take a driving holiday during this time, 14 per cent will not be covered in the event that their car encounters problems.

Should they be left stuck on the hard shoulder as a result and have to call a tow truck to get them home, this could see them facing a £150 bill or more.

Gillian Almond, Head of Current Accounts at the financial services provider, said: "With two long weekends so close to each other it's a great opportunity to get out on the road to visit family and friends or enjoy a driving holiday, but the fun could soon turn to tears if your car breaks down."

Insurance group esure recently warned that with 77 per cent of Britons planning the minimum of a daytrip or night away during the bank holidays, it is important to carry out a few basic checks before taking the car out.

These include keeping an emergency breakdown kit in the glove box and checking tyre pressures.

Posted by Sarah Bailey