As the days shorten and the nights grow longer, the perils of winter driving become all too evident. With as little as seven hours of daylight, drivers face the increased risk of breakdowns in unlit areas, where familiar landmarks may be difficult to spot. Fortunately, leading breakdown recovery provider Start Rescue has teamed up with innovative location technology company what3words to ensure that help is never far away—even in the most isolated locations.
The Challenge of Winter Driving
Winter presents unique challenges for drivers, not least of which is the increased likelihood of breakdowns during dark hours. Lee Puffett, Managing Director of Start Rescue, highlights the importance of prompt assistance: “There can be as little as seven hours of daylight in winter, so the chances of breaking down in the dark are much greater. That’s why we are working with innovative technology company what3words to ensure a speedy response and nobody is left feeling lost.”
What3words: A Revolutionary Approach to Location
What3words has redefined how we communicate locations by dividing the world into a grid of 3m x 3m squares, each assigned a unique combination of three words—its what3words address. This innovative system allows for pinpoint accuracy, even in remote areas where traditional navigation might falter.
“Breakdowns are always stressful—especially on winter nights when the weather can be unpredictable,” notes Chris Sheldrick, Co-Founder and CEO of what3words. “Familiarising yourself with the free what3words app provides peace of mind, knowing you can always communicate your exact location.”
Seamless Integration with Start Rescue
Using the what3words app alongside Start Rescue offers drivers a powerful tool for efficient breakdown recovery. Here’s how it works:
Preparation is Key: Before setting off, download the free what3words app, available for both iOS and Android. The app operates entirely offline, making it perfect for areas with unreliable data connections.
Finding Your Location: To pinpoint your current location, open the app and click the blue arrow (iOS) or compass (Android). Wait a few moments for the GPS to stabilize to ensure accuracy.
Communication: When reporting a breakdown to Start Rescue, share your what3words address alongside any other location descriptors—such as nearby roads or towns. This precise information enables Start Rescue to send a recovery team to your exact location swiftly.
Rapid Response: Start Rescue has earned accolades for its customer service, boasting a 4.5-star rating on Trustpilot and a five-star Defaqto rating. Their status as a Which? Recommended Provider for six consecutive years speaks volumes about their commitment to customer satisfaction.
Awards and Recognition
Start Rescue’s dedication to providing timely and efficient assistance is reflected in their impressive ratings. In the What Car? Survey of Best Breakdown Cover, Start Rescue achieved top marks for best response time, managing to reach 77% of call-outs within 30 minutes to an hour, with no one waiting longer than two hours. The provider also excelled in performing temporary repairs, allowing drivers to continue their journeys with minimal disruption.
Since its launch in 2009, Start Rescue has become a key player in the UK’s fourth-largest breakdown and recovery service, Call Assist, which serves over two million customers nationwide.
As the winter months approach, being prepared for the unexpected is crucial. The partnership between Start Rescue and what3words empowers drivers with the tools they need to navigate breakdown situations safely and efficiently, even in the dark. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, drivers can ensure peace of mind, knowing that help is just a few words away.
For further breakdown advice and to learn more about Start Rescue’s services, visit startrescue.co.uk.
