Check the basics to avoid a motorway breakdown

We're encouraging motorists to ensure they check batteries, tyres and fuel levels before driving on the motorway. Basic checks would help reduce the large number of avoidable motorway breakdowns that occur on motorways every day, according to GEM.

GEM fully supports the National Highways motorway breakdown campaign, which is taking place throughout the month of August.

Breaking down on the motorway – or experiencing an emergency situation such as a dead battery or flat tyre – can be frightening, especially if you’re not sure on what action to take or how to contact Highways England.

The National Highways campaign sets out what you should do to reduce risk in these situations, for yourself and for those ready to come to your rescue. Many of the 500-plus breakdowns occurring on England’s motorways and smart motorways on an average day could be prevented by ensuring vehicles are well maintained and with plenty of fuel.

So we urge drivers to check batteries, tyres and fuel levels on a regular basis – and before any long journey to prevent calling upon emergency services.

National Highways advice if you break down on the motorway:

· Put your LEFT indicators on

· Move into the LEFT lane

· Exit LEFT at the next junction/services or Exit LEFT into an emergency area or hard shoulder

· Put your hazard lights on

· Get behind a safety barrier where there is one; keep well away from moving traffic

· Call National Highways on 0300 123 5000; then a breakdown provider for help

· If you cannot do the above, or in an emergency, stay in your vehicle, keep seatbelts and hazard lights on. Call 999 immediately.

Keep up to date with GEM Motoring Assist at:

Twitter: @motoringassist

Facebook: @gemmotoringassist

Instagram: @gem_motoringassist

LinkedIn: @gem-motoring-assist-limited

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