As petrol retailers warn that supplies could run out this weekend, motorists are being encouraged to top up their tanks and consider breakdown cover for any journeys, urges
Confused.com.
The RMI Independent Petrol Retailers Association ("RMI Petrol"), which represents two thirds of the 9,000 petrol forecourt sites in the UK, advises that its members across the east of the country from Scotland down to Kent are seeing fuel shortages at the pumps.
The snow and exceptionally cold weather has disrupted the fuel supply chain such that up to 500 independent petrol retailers are threatened with running out of petrol - especially diesel - by the weekend. Particularly badly impacted are filling stations in rural areas away from the main trunk roads.
"For anyone who needs the use of a vehicle, hoping for the best in extreme weather conditions like this is a highway to nowhere,” said Will Thomas, head of motor at
Confused.com
“With the added risk of running out of petrol, motorists need to consider the consequences of going without cover.
"Not only could they face a long wait in the cold, but they also stand to pay charges that run into hundreds of pounds for roadside repair and recovery.
“Drivers should also take into account the associated benefits that a breakdown policy would offer, such as an overnight stay, alternative travel and car hire cover.
"In terms of breakdown policies, one size does not fit all; there are different levels of cover available. Motorists should not make assumptions about the level of cover that is included; but, at the same time, they should avoid paying for benefits they will not use.”
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