A 12-POINT guide to keeping drivers safe behind the wheel has been launched by motoring assistance firm Green Flag.

The safety tips include simple suggestions, such as drivers telling someone where they are going along with when they should be back and more detailed help on what to do in the event of a breakdown.

Green Flag published the advice as new research it carried out among 2,000 drivers revealed the days of a good samaritan stopping to help a driver in trouble are coming to an end.

More than half (54%) said they would not stop to help a stranded motorist, with nearly 70% of younger drivers saying they wouldn't stop.

A Green Flag spokesman said: 'The results are a likely indicator of today's society, where drivers in general, and young women in particular, are more aware of the potential dangers of stopping to help strangers.

'Unfortunately, this means people experiencing genuine breakdowns are unlikely to receive much help unless they are a customer of a quick-response breakdown provider.'

Green flag tips for safer motoring

  • Tell someone where you are going and when you will be back
  • Have enough fuel for the journey
  • Ensure the car is well maintained and serviced regularly
  • Keep door locked and windows closed while driving
  • Keep valuables out of sight. If you think you are being followed, drive to a police station, or well-lit public place
  • Always carry a mobile phone, or change for a payphone and the number of your breakdown provider
  • If you have a breakdown, pull of the road and switch on hazard lights
  • Use a mobile phone or walk to the nearest phone to call for breakdown assistance
  • Make sure children are safe – don't leave them alone in the car
  • If you have a breakdown on the motorway, pull on to the hard shoulder and get out of the car by the passenger door and after calling for assistance, wait on the verge – 10% of motorway accidents happen on the hard shoulder
  • When assistance arrives, check the person knows your name and has been sent to help you specifically