In spite of improved road conditions, with less risk of slippery, icy terrain and reduced visibility problems, road safety awareness is just as vital in sultry summer days, NFU spokesperson Laura Wood commented.

Holidaymakers getting away in the UK should beware careless driving on rural roads, she added, given recent government research which revealed that individuals involved in road crashes on country roads are three times as likely to die from the collision.

Meanwhile, more minor summer driving hazards could include driving in flip flops or with bare feet, which minimises pedal control, or over-cramming the boot and blocking your rear view, the insurer warned.

Moreover, though they may look great, summer-friendly convertible cars can prove problematic in case of rain, Swinton insurance warned recently, with valuable car radios, leather interiors and sat nav systems at risk of damage.

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