Big freeze

Low overnight temperatures have again caused problems for the nation’s motorists with breakdown workload higher than yesterday, reports the AA.

For the day so far (as at 12:00), the AA has attended around 5,900 call-outs, up from around 5,200 at the same time yesterday. Breakdowns are currently coming in at around 1,300 every hour and the UK’s biggest breakdown provider expects to get to around 14,500 for the day (more than 50% busier than normal).

Darron Burness, the AA’s Head of Special Operations, says: “With daytime temperatures barely above freezing today, drivers should take extra care, particularly on side roads and in rural areas. If you’re planning to go away over the next few days, keep an eye on the weather forecasts, as we could get either rain or snow.

“Either way, take plenty of warm clothing, food, water, de-icer, ice scraper and a fully-charged mobile in case you run into difficulty.

“Before heading off, give yourself enough time to completely clear the car windows of any frost. Remember to free the wiper blades before turning them on, as they can stick to a cold windscreen and you risk burning out the motor and blowing a fuse. Also, ice crystals are sharp and can cut the rubber blades.”