This summer saw record number of breakdowns in Europe

20 September 2010

This summer saw record number of breakdowns in Europe

  • Motorists choosing four wheels over wings
  • Green Flag reports an European incident increase of 223 per cent

With volcanic ash closing UK airspace and a string of airline failures, more people than ever are driving to the continent. Rapid breakdown cover expert, Green Flag, has seen an increase of 223 per cent in incidents on short term European breakdown policies. Unsurprisingly, the highest volume of calls were in August and the most frequent calls were for cars aged seven years old.

Dan Robinson, head of Green Flag, says: “More motorists are shunning the airlines and driving to Europe. The cost of taking a family of four or a group of friends in one car rather than four return flights, and then taxis when you arrive can be considerably less. Throughout 2010 the travel industry has suffered from volcanic ash, strikes, delays as well as companies collapsing. Consumer confidence in the tour operators would appear to be low and motorists are choosing four wheels over wings.”

Robinson concludes: “Whilst driving to Europe may be the cheaper and more reliable option, it is vital that motorists ensure they have European breakdown cover in place so that they are not stranded and faced with hefty bills should the worst happen. Motorists should ensure that their motor insurance covers them for driving abroad and watch out for the legal country specific requirements, such as the law requiring high visibility jackets to be carried in the car in France.”

Top 10 European rescue calls

  1. Vehicle will not start
  2. Engine problem
  3. No drive (engine runs and in gear but will not drive)
  4. Cut out, will not start
  5. Wheel change
  6. Battery fault
  7. Accident damage
  8. No power
  9. Overheating
  10. Clutch problem

For more information, tips and advice, visit the Driving in Europe section of our website.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

For more information please contact:
Claire Foster
Green Flag Press Officer
Tel: 020 8285 8682
Email: claire.foster@rbs.co.uk

Green Flag

With over 30 years experience, Green Flag provides customers with rapid breakdown cover 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Customers have access to a national network of thousands of independent recovery agents in the UK and mainland Europe.

Green Flag is part of RBS Insurance, the second largest general insurer in the UK* and is wholly owned by the Royal Bank of Scotland Group. Customers can find out more about Green Flag products or get a quote by calling 0845 246 1557 or visiting greenflag.com

Green Flag Motoring Assistance breakdown cover is underwritten by Direct Line Insurance plc which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Registered office: 3 Edridge Road, Croydon, Surrey, CR9 1AG. Registered in England No. 1810801. FSA registered No. 202684. The Financial Services Authority's Register can be accessed through www.fsa.gov.uk

* Based on 2008 FSA returns (policies in force).