Motorists are being advised to keep their car road-ready - as Ireland's workforce gears up for the first day back at work on Monday, after the Christmas break.

Allianz Global Assistance Ireland is anticipating a 40% increase in calls on January 5th, which is being dubbed 'Flat Battery Monday'.

Hundreds of drivers, who haven't used their cars over the break, typically find that their cars won't start on their first day back at work.

According to Allianz Global Assistance, the ‘Top Five’ reasons for breakdown call-outs for Irish motorists in 2014 were:

1. Flat battery
2. Wheel change (due to puncture)
3. Incorrect fuel being put into tank
4. Clutch
5. Getting locked out of car

Roland Hesse, Allianz Global Assistance Ireland Country Manager, says: “The vast majority of call-outs on Monday will probably be to a customer’s home, with a flat battery being the main culprit. Our advice is to drive your car for at least 30 minutes before Monday therefore ensuring your car battery is fully charged and ready for that first day back at work.”