More British people than ever before are leaving the crowded terminals of Heathrow et al behind, choosing to spend time on the roads of Europe for their annual holiday.

Co-operative Insurance has warned holidaymakers that they should take extra precautions before heading onto the European mainland in their autos.

The numbers of people choosing to drive instead of fly (or sail) has risen by a surprising 32 per cent.

Co-operative Insurance research indicates that only 77 per cent of travellers read up on local insurance requirements and rules of the road before their journeys.

A total of 64 per cent say they would not know what to do in the event of an accident abroad. Too many Britons embark on adventurous trips without taking practical steps to minimise the risk of disasters.

One of the key precautions to take is to make sure you have adequate insurance cover for the journey, not just for the car but also for personal accident, medical/legal expenses and additional property (such as a caravan or trailer).

In the unfortunate event of an accident or injury there may be a need to settle hospital bills, so its essential you have adequate travel insurance too.

Breaking down on the continent can be expensive so its advisable to arrange breakdown cover that also operates on the continent.

Contact your insurance company and check your existing cover and make sure it does not expire before you return to the UK.

In some cases a ‘Green Card’ may be required when travelling within the EU. A ‘Green Card’ is an International Motor Insurance Certificate, which ensures that the motor insurance cover you enjoy in the UK, is extended to operate whilst you use your car within the EEC.

David Neave, director of general insurance at Co-operative Insurance said: “Driving abroad might seem like a great way to save money and will add something a little more adventurous to their holiday.

“But many motorists make the costly mistake of assuming their vehicle has the same level of cover abroad, when sadly it doesn’t”.

“At … Co-operative Insurance we provide customers with the flexibility of arranging foreign use insurance which will match all their specific needs.

“Providing not only peace of mind that all the eventualities are covered but also removing the hassle of arranging cover for every single trip.

“By providing customers with greater freedom it enables them to travel whenever they wish. All of which builds upon our core strengths of fair pricing and claims handling, by handing over greater flexibility, choice and convenience to the customer”.