When the weather changes and winter arrives, drivers are forced to adapt their driving behaviour. Road conditions may change dramatically due to ice, snow and harsh weather conditions. Driving in winter can be challenging. Shorter daylight hours, reduced visibility and hazardous conditions including black ice, snow, fog, flood water, heavy rain and stormy conditions can contribute to hazardous driving conditions and means you need to take extra care.
Taking time to prepare your car and yourself will help you stay safe on the road this winter. Unfortunately there is a greater increase in the number of road traffic accidents during winter.
Read our tips on how you can stay safer on the roads this winter:
- Take extra precautions such as lowering your speed and keep a safe distance between cars. Speed is one of the most important factors in road traffic accidents.
- Ensure your winter car preparations are complete including making sure all tyres have adequate tread and lights are working. At least 3mm of tread is recommended for winter.
- Listen to weather warnings being issued and if possible, avoid driving in dangerous conditions.
- Ensure you keep a de-icer and ice scraper in your car and do not attempt to drive until your car is fully deiced.
- Always clear windows of ice, snow or mist.
- Check fuel levels and be prepared for un-expected delays.
- If you need to use fog lights, remember to switch them off when visibility improves so you don’t dazzle other drivers or obscure your brake lights.
- Keep a winter emergency kit including high visibility clothing and warm coat/ blanket, food and drinks in case of breakdown. Don’t forget to add jump leads and a warning triangle in the event of a breakdown.
How Bernadette Mulholland Solicitors can help you if you are involved in a road traffic accident
If you have been involved in a road traffic accident, we can help you recover the compensation you are entitled to, including compensation for injuries caused by the accident. Whiplash, head and spinal injures are common injuries sustained in road traffic accidents. To speak to a member of our team, please call us on 028 7963 2030 or email info@bernadettemulholland.com.