More than two-thirds of drivers would feel scared and vulnerable if their car broke down when they were driving alone.

Despite this, almost 31% make no preparations at all before they set off on a journey.

The fears highlight the need for companies to issue drivers with manuals that contain the procedures they must take if they are in a vehicle that breaks down.

To fulfil their duty of care obligations, fleets should also ensure their vehicles are maintained to manufacturers’ recommendations and to provide staff with 24-hour breakdown contact details in company vehicles so assistance can be sought at anytime.

Whilst 93% of woman surveyed by Britannia Rescue said they would feel vulnerable if they broke down alone in their car at night, 43% of male motorists surveyed also said they would have concerns for their personal safety.

This feeling of vulnerability led many drivers to say they would not want another motorist to stop and help them at the roadside – even if they were stranded alone.

Trust is a big issue for women drivers in particular.

More than two thirds of the women who rejected being helped by a male stranger (68%) said that they would only want help from another woman because if a male stopped they would worry he might attack them.

One in five lone women drivers (21%) said they wouldn’t want anyone to stop.

Men are more comfortable at receiving assistance from other motorists than women, with six out of ten (61%) saying they would appreciate the help.

However, many said they don’t want just anyone to stop - one in five men (20%) said they would only want help from someone ‘who knew what they were doing’ and wouldn’t want anyone else to stop.