Get covered for the continent, MandS Money warns holidaymakers driving to Europe this summer

Nearly half of British drivers have no idea if they're insured for Europe

Only one in five are covered for breaking down in Europe With schools breaking up as early as the end of June* anyone heading to Europe on a motoring holiday should check more than just their headlights before setting off.

Research for MandS Money reveals that last year only a third of drivers were sure that their insurance covered them for driving in the EU, and 42% had no idea if they were insured for Europe**.

Only one in five had European breakdown cover, compared to four out of five with breakdown cover in the UK.

** Many drivers didn't even realise that they should take their insurance documents with them (41%), and a staggering one third wouldn't think to take their driving licence.

MandS Money recommends that drivers taking their cars abroad check whether their car insurance includes full policy cover in the EU.

Even with comprehensive insurance at home, they may need to top- up their cover for Europe, and a quarter of policies on the market charge extra for this***.

MandS Car Insurance includes full policy cover in the EU as standard.

Some car insurance also includes breakdown cover but this may not extend to Europe.

Only 10% of policies include European breakdown cover and 24% offer as an option at extra cost***.

MandS Car Insurance includes this cover as standard for both UK and Europe.

Commenting on the findings of the research, Steve Price, MandS Insurance Manager, said; "It's important to be aware of what's required for driving in Europe as you may be caught out quite easily".

"For example, you can be fined for not having your driving licence and insurance documents with you".

"Just as important is making sure you're covered, which is why we designed MandS Car Insurance to enable people to carry on with their holiday or get home safely if there's a problem with their car".

MandS Car Insurance is available by telephone on 0800 107 1800 and online at www.marksandspencer.com/carinsurance.

Notes.

Scottish schools break up between 29th June and 6th July.

Most state schools in England and Wales break up 20th July (source Daily Telegraph travel section 26th May 2007).

** Research carried out on behalf of MandS Money by YouGov 16th -19th June 2006 among 2,360 people aged 18 and over.

*** Source Defaqto Aequos Database 17th May 2007.

MandS Car Insurance Inclusive breakdown cover in the UK and Europe Inclusive hire car for up to 14 days after accident, fire or theft.

Plus a courtesy car after that if your own is still off the road, subject to cover and availability Inclusive Keycare for all new customers.

Repairs guaranteed for three years Easy application with no forms to fill.

Helpful telephone claims service Green card for up to 90 days travel per trip.

Discount available for buying online.

Instant quotes by freephone or online Instant cover Debit card, credit card or direct debit payment Comprehensive, third party fire and theft or third party only cover.

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