Video From Goodyear Dunlop and Synaptic Digital: Record Numbers on the Road This Summer, but Drivers' Preparations for Holiday Journeys Often Inadequate

BRUSSELS, June 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Some 74 per cent of European holidaymakers are travelling by car to their summer holiday destination this year, but they are still falling short when it comes to preparing themselves and their cars for the journey, a major survey conducted by Goodyear Dunlop shows.

See video from Goodyear Dunlop at: http://inr.synapticdigital.com/Goodyeardunlop/summerroadsafety/

The Road Safety Survey, part of the Goodyear Dunlop's 'Leave Prepared, Arrive Safe' campaign, canvassed 5,600 motorists in 15 countries across Europe for their views on the demands and distractions of summer driving.

There are around 250 million cars registered in Europe, and over 50 per cent of motorists plan to drive more than 1,000km on their holiday – with one in four intending to cover even more than 2,000km. That means drivers will collectively cover several billion kilometers this summer – making roads busier than ever before.

However, some drivers are still failing to take simple steps to minimize the dangers and stresses of their big summer getaway. Of those surveyed, one in three often drives for more than five hours without a break, when it is recommended that drivers should take a break at least every two hours. Driver fatigue is a significant factor in road accidents.

Based on a thorough evaluation of the survey data, Goodyear Dunlop has developed its 'Top Summer Safety Tips' to help drivers reduce the dangers of the summer exodus:

• Prepare yourself – Ensure you are hydrated, rested, and have left ample time for your journey
• Check your car's condition – Ensure that you have performed basic maintenance before you set off
• Prepare for the journey – Ensure you know your route and the rules of the road along the way
• Ensure the car is loaded correctly – make sure passengers are secure and luggage stored safely
• Check your tires – Ensure you have sufficient tread depth and the correct tire pressure

Goodyear Dunlop will reveal further survey results over the coming summer period.

06NY11-1352

SOURCE Synaptic Digital; Goodyear Dunlop