As the Easter bank holiday approaches, many families across the UK are planning to get away causing inevitable travel chaos across Britain. After reviewing previous data from 2019, we can see an average of 22 breakdowns every minute from Thursday to Easter Monday, which leads us onto our next question, are you prepared in the event of a breakdown?
With an increased volume of traffic on the roads and often warmer weather, you may need to be more cautious when driving this bank holiday weekend. To help assist drivers across Easter weekend, we have the top tips to staying safe this Easter and the best advice of what to do in the event you break down.
Easter Breakdown Checklist…
Before starting your Easter break this year, it is recommended that you carry out a vehicle inspection or take your car to a garage for a “check up” to ensure it is running smoothly before you leave. It is almost impossible to prevent a breakdown, but you can follow this checklist to help reduce the risk of a breakdown as much as possible.
The top 4 things to check before you leave for your Easter break include…
- Have you checked your tyres? This includes tyre pressure, tread and the quality of your tyres.
- Are all fluids topped up in the car such as window washer fluid, oil and engine coolant?
- Do you have an emergency pack for your car in case it is needed? It is always handy to carry a first aid kit, phone charger pack, water and snacks, reflective jackets, warning triangle, blankets and any essential medicine.
- Is your car performing to its maximum potential? Is your car juddering or behaving unusually? It may be time to check the core elements of your car at a garage such as your battery and lights.
What To Do If You Break Down…
One of the most important things to remember when you break down is to remain calm and find somewhere safe to pull over. Your safety is paramount so ensure (if possible) that you move to a safe place and put your hazard lights on.
If it is safe to do so, you should make others aware of your breakdown by putting on a reflective jacket and placing a warning triangle at least 45 metres behind your car.
Once you are visible to other drivers and you are in a safe destination, it is time to call for help. Call The Mansfield Group on 0870 600 3444 and a member of our team will be able to support you and send a driver to your location.
Stopping On The Motorway…
Depending on the condition of your car, you may be able to pull onto the hard shoulder, which is the designated emergency lane. Once you have pulled onto the hard shoulder, keep your lights on and switch your hazards on so people are aware of your vehicle. The driver and passengers should move onto the verge and move away from the vehicle to a much safer destination, exiting out of the left hand door.
Save Our Details For A Smooth Pick Up…
Breaking down can be stressful but we are here to help you as much as we can! Our team works 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, across the whole of the UK so we have you covered no matter where you are! Simply save our number – 08706 003 444 and give us a call when you need some roadside assistance!
