ROAD Safety experts GEM Motoring Assist (formerly the Guild of Experienced Motorist) is warning that tight family budgets caused by the current financial crisis could have a direct impact on the reliability of family cars just as the main holiday period is beginning.

GEM Chief Executive, David Williams, says: “More and more people are planning to take their summer break in the UK which means families are setting out on long journeys on unfamiliar roads in cars that have been heavily loaded.

Many have treated car maintenance as a low priority in these difficult times and we tend to over-rely on the reliability of modern vehicles.

There is a real danger in breaking down on a strange road with all the family on board and a car full of luggage with children keen and excited to get to the destination.”

He said that what can make matters worse is that motorists have tried to save costs by not joining a road-side rescue organisation adding to the potential wait and challenges of being picked up.

“While rescue organisations will pick you up, if you are not a member it could cost a great deal of money and eat into a tight family budget,” he explains.

He claims that people towing caravans and trailers may also have avoided having them checked for an extended period.

Research by a leading insurance specialist shows one in three cars will suffer a mechanical failure annually and incur repairs hard- strapped families can ill afford.

It also reveals a third of owners are considering extending their service interval this year to save money.

As a membership organisation providing a variety of services to those that belong, GEM operates an award winning roadside recovery operation that covers individuals thus any make of car of whatever age would be covered. GEM also publishes a FREE information booklet giving details of how to avoid breakdowns and what to do if the worse happens.  Details can be found at www.motoringassist.com or call 01342-825676.

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