Commuter Crisis As Two Million Motorists Break Down During Rush Hour

Research figures on breakdowns in the UK.

One in seven (15%) breakdowns happen during rush hour Over a third (37%) of breakdowns occur at home leaving drivers stranded on their driveways More than one in seven (16%) breakdowns take place with young children in the car

Brits are suffering a commuter crisis as new research reveals one in seven (15%) breakdowns happen between the rush hours of 7am and 9am, leaving school-run mums stranded and the nations employees late for work.

The research, by breakdown specialist Green Flag, reveals 4.8 million stalled motorists** (37%) dont even get as far as the end of their driveway, resulting in frustration for millions every year.

Of the 12.9 million drivers*** who have broken down in the past two years, one in eight (12%) have done so at the office, causing stress and major delay to their drive home from work. A quarter of mens breakdowns (25%) struck during their commute to work or on their way to a business meeting. Women have proven a quick trip to the shops is no easy ride either, with nearly one in four (22%) running into car trouble en route.

The top five locations for car breakdowns are: 1.At home (37%) 2.While commuting to work or a business meeting (21%) 3.On the way to visit friends or family (18%) 4.During a trip to the shops (17%) 5.At work (12%)

A breakdown can also leave motorists trapped in their car or at risk of other road dangers until help arrives. A fifth (21%) of those surveyed were in a situation where it was unsafe to leave the car, one in six (16%) had young children with them and over one in twenty (6%) had a passenger in the vehicle who had difficulty walking. A third of women who have broken down (32%) admitted to feeling tense while waiting for help to arrive.

Frances Browning, spokesperson for Green Flag, said: Most of us lead busy lives with various work and family commitments, and there is nothing more boring and wasteful than being stuck waiting for help particularly when were pressed for time during the working week rush hour. When breaking down there will unfortunately be some waiting time, but having breakdown cover can help ensure a recovery vehicle arrives speedily and the wait is as short and pain-free as possible. Over one in four (28%) motorists who have broken down complained of a flat battery or the engine not starting as being the main cause of their car failing. A further 15% found a puncture decreased the chance of them getting to their destination on time.

The top five breakdown causes that make Brits blow a gasket are: 1.Flat battery (18%) 2.Flat tyre (15%) 3.Engine wont start (10%) 4.Other electrical failures (9%) 5.Overheating (6%)

For further information about our breakdown cover please log onto: www.greenflag.com