18 Breakdowns expected every minute as people return to work

• 26,000 breakdowns are expected on 2^nd January as many people head back to work after the festive break
• Breakdown callouts are predicted to increase 88 per cent on 2^nd January 
• Green Flag is calling for drivers to start their engines now and then, to help avoid a non-starter in 2025

With most of the festivities and get togethers behind us, the last thing on people’s minds is whether their car will start or breakdown as daily life resumes. Breakdown provider, Green Flag, predicts there will be over 26,000 breakdowns¹ on 2^nd January, an 88 per cent increase in the average number of callouts compared to the annual daily average. It is anticipated that 18 cars every minute will require breakdown support on the 2^nd. 

Callouts to deal with flat batteries, punctured tyres and cars not starting, are just a few of the issues that mechanics across the Green Flag network expect to support customers with following the festive break. Some vehicles will have been parked without being started for two weeks, while people enjoyed the festivities, which is why the 2^nd January is traditionally a day that sees a huge spike in callouts for Green Flag’s expert mechanics.

Katie Lomas, Managing Director at Green Flag commented: “That first working day back post the festive break can be hectic as many people start their vehicles for the first time in a couple of weeks. Not only is it expected to be a busy time on the roads, it is also expected that many people will experience issues with their cars, so it is worth starting vehicles regularly over the festive break to ensure they are ticking over.”

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Notes to Editors:

1. A review of Green Flag’s own breakdown data comparing the 2^{nd of} January, to the average month over a six month period on the same date.
2. Breakdown number based on Green Flag’s own data, based on the date of 2^nd January.

For further information please contact:

Chelsey Wheeler

Deputy Head of News and Issues

Chelsey.wheeler@directlinegroup.co.uk

About Green Flag  

With over 50 years' experience, Green Flag provides customers with breakdown cover 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Customers have access to a network of breakdown operators across the UK and mainland Europe (Euro Plus cover required).     

Green Flag is underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No 1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.     

Green Flag and U K Insurance Limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc.   

Customers can find out more about Green Flag products or get a quote by calling 0345 246 1557, connecting via the Green Flag Rescue Me Application, or visiting www.greenflag.com