The UK's leading breakdown provider, the RAC, has sounded the alarm over a dramatic rise in preventable callouts, all stemming from a single, common parking mistake. As the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite, drivers are being urged to take simple precautions to avoid hefty recovery fees and lengthy waits for assistance.
The Costly Culprit: Ignoring Simple Tyre and Battery Checks
According to RAC data, a significant number of drivers are returning to their vehicles only to find them completely immobilised. The primary culprits? Flat batteries caused by leaving interior lights or infotainment systems on, and flat tyres resulting from parking in a position that makes them vulnerable to kerb damage or unable to be accessed by recovery vehicles.
RAC patrol of the year, Chris Millward, emphasised the frustration, stating: "There's nothing worse for a driver than returning to a car that won't start, especially when it's easily avoidable. A few seconds of checking lights and switches can save hours of hassle."
Why This is a Recovery Nightmare
The situation becomes exponentially more complicated when a vehicle is parked with its wheels tight against a kerb. This seemingly minor detail can transform a simple tyre change into a complex and expensive recovery operation.
- Inaccessible Wheels: If a car is parked with a flat tyre on the kerb side, the jack cannot be safely positioned to lift the vehicle.
- Recovery Vehicle Access: Standard breakdown trucks often require clear access to lift the car. Tight parking spaces and wheel positioning can make this impossible.
- Costly Towing: In these scenarios, the only solution is often a specialised flatbed truck, which can mean a longer wait and a significantly higher cost if the driver is not covered for such recovery.
Your Essential Pre-Abandonment Checklist
Before you lock your car and walk away, the RAC advises running through this quick checklist to ensure you won't be faced with a nasty surprise later:
- Light Check: Perform a quick visual sweep of the dashboard and interior to confirm all lights, including the dreaded boot light, are off.
- Wheel Positioning: When parking, try to leave a small gap between your tyres and the kerb. This simple act can be a lifesaver.
- Think About Access: Consider how a recovery truck would reach your car if needed. Avoid boxing yourself in or parking in dead ends.
- Battery Health: If your battery is more than five years old, be extra vigilant. Cold weather exacerbates existing battery weakness.
By taking these few extra moments, drivers can protect themselves from unnecessary stress, save money, and keep the RAC's patrols free to assist with genuine mechanical emergencies.
