Drivers urged to check fuel levels

19/08/2009

The number of people whose cars have broken down because they have run out of fuel surged during the 12 months to July this year, the Highways Agency has announced.

In a new nationwide campaign, the organisation urged drivers to make sure they have enough petrol or diesel in their tanks before setting off to avoid putting themselves and other motorists at risk on the motorway.

The Highways Agency's director of operations Derek Turner said the fact that 15,000 motorists broke down because of a lack of fuel over the course of a year is a cause for alarm.

"We want drivers to be aware of the risks and also to encourage them to check their fuel level before they set off. It's important that if you are travelling over long distances, that you continually monitor your fuel level," he urged.

The Highways Agency has also this week urged drivers to make sure they plan ahead if making a motorway journey this weekend or the next, as traffic volumes are expected to rise considerably.