Green Flag issues flood warning to drivers

Drivers in the UK are being warned by breakdown experts, Green Flag, to not take any chances when it comes to wet and wintery driving conditions. Over the weekend, Green Flag experienced 16 per cent higher call volumes as drivers risked their safety to get to their destination on Saturday and Sunday. As the rain moves further North today, motorists should take heed in areas such as Derby, York and Manchester which could become treacherous for commuters making their way home. 

Gary Amos, head of the Green Flag recovery network, comments: "Over the weekend the worst affected areas were Exmouth, Devon and Cornwall. Some roads have become impossible to pass and dangerous to drive on. As the wet weather travels up the country, we are advising motorists to check the local weather and the Environmental Agency maps to see if it is safe to make their journey."

"It is predicted that the current wet weather could turn to frost before the week is out. In both instances, make sure you carry some essentials in your car such as a blanket, some comfortable boots or wellies, a drink and snack and an umbrella. If you do breakdown in wet weather, don’t open the car bonnet as it will be harder to get started again if it is soaked. If you breakdown on an A road or motorway, despite the weather, it is important you get out of your car and stand behind the barrier or as high on the grass verge as you can go."

Green Flag wet weather tips:

• Before you set off, make sure you check the local weather
• Ensure that the vehicle’s windscreen wipers and lights are working
• Driving through large puddles and spraying pedestrians or cyclists is not only considered rude – you could face penalty points and fine
• Never attempt to drive through standing water if you are not sure of the depth
• Do not drive through fast moving water as you may get swept away
• If you do drive through standing water use a low gear and do not make any sudden movements

- Ends -

Notes to editors
For further information please contact:

Claire Foster
PR Manager
claire.foster@directlinegroup.co.uk 
020 8285 8682
07900 217 264

Green Flag

With over 40 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.

Green Flag Motoring Assistance 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 are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

Green Flag and U K Insurance Limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc, which 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, connecting via the Green Flag Rescue Me Application, or visiting www.greenflag.com