Are you ready for a breakdown or emergency?

As the days grow longer and warmer, driving season is upon us. Long weekends beckon, and we jump into our cars and head out and away. Spontaneity is the name of the game, but just a little planning can make sure that not only do we get to our destinations, but also get back again in one piece.

And it doesn’t take too much doing, just some plain old fashioned common sense.

You’re prepared for the break, so make sure your car is too. Check the oil and coolant levels, and carry spare supplies just in case. Make sure that the windscreen washer reservoir is topped up. Bright sunshine can render otherwise ‘just grubby’ glass practically opaque and driving impossible. Check your tyres, both for pressure and wear. The road safety charity Brake, has a great little credit card sized guide that will slip in between the treads and indicate when a change is required.

Plan your journey, and make sure you have allowed plenty of time for holiday traffic! Sat nav does take the stress out of directions, but most breakdown organizations, including Green Flag, recommend that you consult a road atlas before you set out, to get your bearings, and make sure you have one in the car in case you need to tell anyone where you are.

If possible, make sure you have a fully charged mobile phone with you.Should you get into difficulties, it is at the very least reassuring to call and let people know where you are.

Why not purchase the 'Giftbox Option 2' which includes a mobile phone charger, replacement engine oil, screen wash, an air freshener, road atlas, safety hammer and an advice leaflet all in a fabulous must-have box. The perfect safety car kit for your car or as a present for the lady in your life.

Motorways are usually the fastest way to get across country, but they do require additional driving skills. Try to remember just how fast you are traveling. If you are used to driving at 40 mph, the jump to 70 may not feel that much when everyone else is doing the same speed (or more!), but stopping distances are much increased. Be prepared for the unexpected. People do the strangest things and slower drivers may pull out in front of you without indication or warning. Allow plenty of space between you and the car in front and always keep a check in your mirrors for other drivers behind you. If you need to move quickly into the outside lane, you need to know if there is space, and have an idea of the speed of other approaching vehicles. Be aware particularly of HGVs. They tend to drive with a different set of rules. Because it takes them a long time to build up speed, they avoid braking, and if approaching a slower moving vehicle in their lane, will move into the overtaking lane. Remember that they may not always see you, so try to be aware of when a lorry may need to overtake, and, if you can’t move into the next lane, slow down and be patient while they complete the manoeuvre.

Think ahead, take care and happy summer traveling!