Motorists are being advised to keep their car road ready, as the Irish 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 have not used their cars over the break, typically find that their cars will not start on their first day back at work.

On January 2nd 2014, there was a massive jump of more than 100% in call-outs compared to an average weekday - with the busiest time of the day between 9am and 11am.

The top five reasons for breakdown call outs for Irish motorists last year were a flat battery, a wheel change due to a puncture, incorrect fuel being put into the tank a clutch problem and getting locked out of the car.

Roland Hesse, country manager for Allianz Global Assistance Ireland, says: "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."

"We'd also recommend motorists make themselves aware of the public transport options, in case the breakdown is a more complicated issue than a flat battery," he added.