Drivers urged to take care over bank holiday

May Day bank holiday trips should be covered by car insurance, says M&S.

Marks & Spencer (M&S) is urging drivers to plan their May Day bank holiday trips in advance to ensure a stress and accident-free journey.

According to RAC figures, around 11 million Brits were on the country's roads during last year's bank holiday weekend, with heavy traffic and warm weather contributing to a rise in accidents and crashes.

Car insurance and breakdown cover are therefore an essential part of any road user's holiday plans, as longer journeys cause cars to overheat quicker than usual. Also, drivers heading abroad into Europe this weekend should ensure that their policy covers European Union (EU) travel before setting off, as not all British insurance plans cover international trips.

M&S's Premier insurance package includes the EU and offers all holders RAC breakdown cover as standard. Andrew Ferguson, head of general insurance at the firm, said: "Busy traffic can lead to a higher level of accidents and breakdowns. Having the necessary insurance in place provides extra peace of mind to ensure worry-free Bank Holiday travel.

"We are urging motorists to take adequate precautions before setting off and while driving to avoid unnecessary stress, breakdowns and causing further delays on the roads."

By Joe Letts