‘Flat battery Monday’ set to affect motorists nationwide

Motorists across the country will be forced to run the post-Christmas gauntlet next week, with roadside assistance providers expecting a huge increase in callouts due to "flat battery Monday".

It may sound like an obvious marketing gimmick, but figures released by Allianz Global Assistance Ireland show a 100 per cent increase in callouts for the corresponding Monday last January, as car engines sputtered into life following sporadic use over the break.

"The vast majority of call-outs on Monday will probably be to a customer's home, with a flat battery being the main culprit," said Roland Hesse of Allianz Global Assistance Ireland.

According to statistics for 2014, punctures and clutch malfunctions both trailed behind flat batteries as the most common problems experienced by Allianz customers in the State.

“Our advice is to drive your car for at least 30 minutes before Monday therefore ensuring your car battery is fully charged and ready for that first day back at work,” said Mr Hesse, who also advised motorists to take note of public transport options in case of car failure.

Ahead of an anticipated spike in demand during January, the company has urged car owners to keep items such as shovels, jump leads, warm blankets and cat litter in their boots to prepare for any weather-related difficulties that may be encountered on the roads.