More Than Half of Motorists Are Not Equipped for a Breakdown, Say Swinton

MANCHESTER, UNITED KINGDOM--(Marketwire -01/08/12)- An online survey carried out by Swinton, the UK's leading high street retailer of car insurance, found that a staggering 52% of drivers do not keep a breakdown kit in their car for emergencies.

The poll, which surveyed motorists about their winter driving, also found that while a quarter of motorists admitted having car trouble during the winter season, more than half still do not carry basic breakdown supplies, such as a torch, water, or fuel.

Results showed that 69.7% of people who experience a break down are most likely to call their breakdown provider first, closely followed by 13.1% who would call their partner, and 8.1% who admitted that dad would be their first port of call during a crisis.

Fortunately though, 75.8% of motorists were happy to report that they had never experienced a breakdown during the winter months.

Interestingly, 78% of people surveyed said they thought you should step outside of the vehicle and stand away from traffic when your car breaks down.

Steve Chelton, Claims Manager at Swinton motor insurance, said: "It really is quite shocking that such a large number of drivers could be so unprepared for situations like this. It's important for people to remember that a breakdown can happen at any time, and as driving conditions can be particularly bad during winter, motorists should make sure they take extra precautions. Of course, the right car insurance is also vital, should a journey fail to run smoothly."

For more information please contact Mairead Rodden or Sarah Boyle at SKV Communications on 0161 838 7770 or email firstname.surname@skvcommuncations.co.uk

About Swinton

 

--  With 603 branches nationwide Swinton is the UK's largest high street
    insurance retailer
--  Unlike many other companies in the financial services industry, Swinton
    is committed to keeping its branches open for business, and part of the
    community
--  Swinton provides a one-stop-shop for the insurance and related needs of
    its clients, offering home, car, caravan, business, holiday, motorbike
    and even classic car insurance
--  With a dedicated team of advisors on hand at every branch to search a
    panel of insurers to offer quality cover at competitive rates.