Over two-thirds (67%) of Britain’s motorists are putting lives at risk trying to avoid the cold and rain.

Research by Mediwrap in launching its new range of thermal blankets shows that despite government figures revealing a 71% increase in the total number of hard shoulder casualties in the last three years, over 22 million motorists stay firmly seated in their cars when they break down if it’s cold, raining heavily or dark outside.

A practice highly discouraged by RAC, this potentially life threatening action is not helped by the fact that almost two thirds (64%) of drivers questioned admitted to not keeping blankets or even a coat (73%) in the boot of the car they drive.

In a bid to rid the country’s hard shoulder of shivering motorists and keep them safe, RAC has teamed up with the British makers of the military forces endorsed Mediwrap blanket to provide some much relief from the cold.

Available to the UK public for the first time, the reflective RAC Mediwrap products are designed to stave off the effects of even the harshest of weather by maintaining core body temperature, keeping drivers warm, safe and visible at all times.

Used by the UK’s emergency services, they are particularly lightweight and even considered part of a standard first response kit by British medics and the Army.

When breaking down RAC always advises drivers and passengers to wait for help away from the vehicle and passing traffic – either behind the crash barrier or on an embankment if there is one.

RAC’s Patrol Ambassador of the Year Prakesh Patel said: "Patrols often end up donating coats, hats and gloves to drivers who have travelled unprepared. Keeping RAC Mediwrap blankets in the boot of your car will help to keep you warm and dry in case of emergency.”

The blanket is available in stores nationwide and online, with prices starting at £8.99. For further details visit www.halfords.com.