British drivers risk being left stranded in Europe and charged £3,500 this summer

British drivers could be facing misery on the roads when travelling on the continent, as one in 10 drivers claim they have broken down on roads across Europe.

Fresh research suggests that taking a car on holiday remains a popular option, with almost half (44 per cent) saying they have driven their own vehicle in Europe.

However, drivers are being warned of the headaches associated with travelling on the continent, especially if they are taking their personal cars.

Among those who have travelled without European breakdown cover, a concerning 42 per cent said they didn't consider buying it at all.

More than a third (35 per cent) of people said they didn't consider that it would be necessary, highlighting serious flaws in drivers' beliefs.

The data, which was commissioned by the AA, found that some drivers are wholly unprepared for different outcomes when they are travelling abroad.

Experts warned that motorists may be more at risk when travelling on roads that they are not familiar with, emphasising the need for breakdown cover.

Drivers will also have to deal with local garages, different motoring rules, language barriers and disrupted travel plans.

Lee Morley, expert patrol at the AA, said: "Many drivers will spend time planning the route, the ferry or the hotel, but not always enough time thinking about what they would do if the car let them down abroad.

"Our latest research shows that breakdowns in Europe are not uncommon, yet many of those travelling without cover said they had either not considered it or assumed they would not need it."

He warned that drivers are putting themselves at risk of a "costly gamble" if something were to go wrong with their vehicles when they are far from home.

The caution comes as data found that seven in 10 drivers are still not confident when using European roads, especially when driving on the other side of the road.

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Almost one-third of motorists said they actively avoid driving abroad, with just six per cent of 18 to 24-year-olds saying they felt comfortable driving abroad.

The AA highlighted how drivers could face enormous financial troubles if they break down abroad without cover.

Drivers could face expenses of more than £3,500 in repatriation costs if they don't have European breakdown cover and their relatively new car breaks down in the French Alps.

Research shows that many drivers struggle to see the benefits of European breakdown cover when travelling abroad, assuming that it will be an extra expense without being utilised.

Britons are encouraged to prepare themselves properly before they travel to Europe, including getting breakdown cover to protect themselves in all situations.

The AA has confirmed that it will be deploying a team of UK-based AA patrols in France this summer to support Britons.

Mr Morley said that drivers should complete a series of checks at a minimum, including tyres, fluids and battery.

"Additionally they should make sure they understand the local driving rules, and ensure they have the right support in place in case things go wrong," he added.