Will Friday 13th be unlucky for you?

• Breakdowns 12.5 per cent below average on Friday 13th in 2008

While Friday 13th is synonymous with bad luck, the number of breakdowns attended by breakdown specialists Green Flag on the sole Friday 13th in 2008, was one of the lowest Friday totals for the year.

The number of call outs to Green Flag for the Friday 13th June was 12.5 per cent down on the Friday average for 2008 and below the average for that month.

However, with snow and ice making driving particularly hazardous this year, motorists should pay extra attention to ensure their Friday 13th isn’t an unlucky one.

Head of Green Flag, Dan Robinson, comments;
“In 2008, Friday 13th was one of our quietest Fridays for the year. Hopefully motorist’s superstitions will be reflected in their driving attitudes and they will take extra care on our wintry roads today.

“By putting safety first, drivers reduce the chances of their Friday 13th ending in misfortune on our roads.” 

Motorists should ensure they have breakdown cover in place. Green Flag has an average national response time of 30 minutes and a roadside repair rate of 84 per cent.* With policies available from £25, it doesn’t cost much to ensure a broken down car doesn’t ruin your Friday the 13th.

Green Flag’s Wet Weather Driving Tips

• Park your vehicle on higher ground if the area where you live or work has been flooded in the past.
• Always ensure you keep provisions such as food, water and a blanket in your car.
• Avoid harsh braking when there is surface water as you will skid.
• Allow plenty of time for your journey, avoiding flooded areas.
• Keep listening to the radio for local updates.
• Never drive through water if you can’t see how deep it is.
• If water does enter your vehicle, do not turn on your ignition. There may be a risk of an electrical short circuit and further damage could occur.
• Heavy rain can put extra strain on the car's wiper motor system. Ensure that the blades are in good condition, with no splits.

- Ends -

Press Contact:
Jake Hatton
Green Flag
Direct: 020 8313 5741
Mobile: 0792 046 7860
Email: jake.hatton@rbs.co.uk

Notes to Editors:

• Source: sample size of 193,000 breakdowns, Aug-Dec 08.

Green Flag

With over 30 years experience, Green Flag provides customers with rapid breakdown cover 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Customers have access to a national network of thousands of independent recovery agents in the UK and mainland Europe.

Green Flag is part of RBS Insurance, the second largest general insurer in the UK and 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 or visiting www.greenflag.com

Green Flag Motoring Assistance breakdown cover is underwritten by Direct Line Insurance plc which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Registered office: 3 Edridge Road, Croydon, Surrey, CR9 1AG. Registered in England No. 1810801. FSA registered No. 202684. The Financial Services Authority's Register can be accessed through http://www.fsa.gov.uk/