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7th March 2008

RIAS advises customers to make car safety checks now

Cars brandishing the latest ‘08’ plates will be seen on the roads this week following the new registration day on 1st March, and research from RIAS, the over 50s insurance specialist, reveals that most new cars in the UK are purchased by drivers aged 50 plus. But for those not opting for a new car at this time, RIAS advises that a few timely checks can substantially improve road safety.

Janet Connor, Managing Director of RIAS explains: “As we leave winter behind, it is more important than ever to keep an eye on the condition of your car, to maximise safety and reduce the risk of accidents. The adverse weather and difficult driving conditions of the last few months will have taken their toll and, in concentrating on getting from A to B, many drivers could be letting potential problems go undetected.

We strongly recommend all our customers make essential car checks now.” Most of the basic checks being suggested by RIAS shouldn’t cost a penny. And if repairs and replacements are needed as a result of the survey, they are simple and relatively inexpensive:

• Tyre Pressure – Check and adjust tyre pressure regularly. Under-inflated tyres make engines work harder and use more fuel. Over-inflated tyres are unsafe, affect steering and can lead to tyre rupture. Getting the pressure right can lower CO2 emissions and increase the life of tyres. Check car manuals for correct tyre pressure.

• Tyre Tread – this is the portion of tyre in contact with the road, and should be at least 1.6mm deep. Tyres below this level are illegal and make breaking and road-hold less efficient.

• Cracked Windscreens – chips can turn into cracks, and if this happens while driving it could seriously affect safety. Check for flaws in the glass and repair or replace if required.

• Water and oil levels – checking regularly to prevent engine damage. This is particularly important in older cars. If topping up oil, use one suitable for the engine (check car manual). Make sure water in the cooling system is at the correct level; it should have anti-freeze in it in the winter (one part anti-freeze to two parts water) but it also does engines good throughout the year as it prevents rusting on the inside of the radiator.

• Windscreen wipers – clear vision is a priority so check wipers for wear and tear, and replace if necessary.

• Screen Wash – vital for safety. Whether clearing road spray in winter or dead bugs in summer, screen wash is a must.

• Lights and indicators – make sure these all work, and replace bulbs if necessary.

RIAS advises that all these simply checks are both advisable and important, but states that cars also need to undergo regular servicing in order to maintain them in top condition both for driving comfort and road safety.

If you do need to make a claim after an accident, telephone your insurer as soon as possible – they will register your claim and advise you on what to do next.

-Ends-

Editor’s Notes

RIAS offers cost effective car insurance for the over 50s and can provide:

• protected no claims discount

• 24 hour claims service

• free courtesy car while yours is being repaired (for fully comprehensive policies)

• fast repair service

• extra personal accident cover

• extra discounts for low annual mileage, overnight garaging and cars over years old

About RIAS

• RIAS was established in 1992 and is a specialist provider of insurance products for the over 50s age group

• RIAS negotiates with a panel of insurers to secure competitive, value for money products · RIAS has over 970,000 customers and employs over 1,200 people across two locations - Bournemouth and Belfast

• In July 2007 RIAS’ home insurance contents and buildings policies received four ‘Best Buy’ awards from Which? magazine

• In December 2007 RIAS won the ‘Personal Lines Broker of the year" award at the Insurance Times awards

For further information:

Sadie Sheppard RIAS Public Relations 01202 254489 ssheppard@rias.co.uk

www.rias.co.uk