Direct Line warns of breakdown frequency

Direct Line has warned of the frequency of breakdowns following new figures showing that UK drivers break down an average of 20 times in their driving careers.

This means that drivers break down a minimum of once every three years, according to the findings from Direct Line Breakdown.

Women are mostly likely to break down due to a flat tyre, while a flat battery is the number one cause of breakdowns for men.

Meanwhile 39 per cent of all drivers don't worry too much if they are low on petrol, which may contribute to the fact that 12 per cent of men and eight per cent of women break down due to running out of petrol.

Direct Line Breakdown has said that the figures show the importance of having proper breakdown insurance.

"It's always best to get the professionals to help when you do have problems to ensure you get back on the road as quickly as possible," said spokeswoman Emma Holyer.

"With breakdown cover a trained mechanic is only a phone call away, providing much-needed peace of mind."