Summer means getaways, beaches and, in many cases, long stretches of road. But it is also the time of year when the highest number of cars break down. In fact, 45% of vehicle recoveries following a breakdown or accident take place between June and September, with August at the top of the list. The reason is simple: more journeys, longer distances and cars pushed to the limit in the heat. These are not short recoveries either: on average, each vehicle travels 360 kilometres from the scene of the incident to the repair garage.

When it happens, visibility and keeping a safe distance from traffic should be the priorities. These are the key steps:

• Make the car visible: switch on the hazard lights and, if possible, move it onto the hard shoulder.
• Put on your reflective vest before getting out, and leave the car from the side away from traffic.
• Place the V-16 warning beacon, compulsory since January and designed to be activated without leaving the vehicle.
• Move away from the car and stand behind the safety barrier. Never remain beside the vehicle or walk along the hard shoulder.
• Call your roadside assistance provider and, if there is danger, call 112.

One final piece of advice: before setting off, check that your policy includes good roadside assistance. If you are unsure, simply call us and ask.