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Elderly drivers have been told to keep a certain amount of fuel in their vehicles at all times this winter for one simple reason. Experts at The Older Drivers Forum have urged petrol and diesel road users to make sure they have at least 25% of their tank full while behind the wheel.

Motorists should keep more fuel in their tanks than usual over the winter months, with delays more likely to be an issue. Experts issued the advice as part of a series of tips for elderly drivers hoping to get behind the wheel this autumn and winter.

The Older Drivers Forum said: "With a petrol or diesel car, make sure to always have a quarter of tank of fuel in case there are unexpected delays."

According to the RAC, drivers should never chance running their vehicle on low fuel with road users urged to fill up as soon as the tank feel low. They have also stressed road users should get their car topped-up "as soon as possible" once their vehicle reaches a quarter tank.

Specialists at Interfuels have also stressed that running low on fuel was never a good idea with road users urged to top-up way ahead of running on empty. They suggested that 50 miles remaining is a good round number which road users should see as a warning to start hunting down a petrol station.

Interfuels said: "When your fuel gauge hits 50 miles left, think refuelling. This gives you plenty of time to find the best fuel prices, rather than being rushed into a decision as your tank nears empty.

"Running out of fuel completely can damage the fuel pump itself, especially if it runs dry, as it can be a costly fix. It's generally best to maintain at least a quarter tank of fuel to avoid these risks.

"Maintaining a healthy fuel level, rather than constantly topping up or running on fumes, is a more practical approach to fuel efficiency. By keeping your tank at least a quarter full, you can avoid any risks associated with low fuel levels and get rid of any potential efficiency drawbacks from a full tank."