Wintry weather is persisting into March around the Moray Firth. Inevitably, in winter, there tends to be an increase in road traffic accidents. At this time of year, we are more likely to be driving in the dark and on roads affected by snow and ice. Repeated freezing and thawing also increases the number and size of potholes in the roads.
What steps can you take?
Equipment to carry in your vehicle
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) recommends certain basic safety equipment to keep in your vehicle at all times, so you are prepared if the weather deteriorates. This should include a towrope, de-icing equipment, a spare wheel, a torch, a first aid kit and a warm blanket.
Checks on the vehicle itself
In addition, you should check that your vehicle itself is properly prepared for winter conditions. Check your tyre pressure regularly and ensure that you have sufficient tyre tread as this will reduce the risk of loss of traction and skidding (as well as improving your fuel consumption). It is also important that your windscreen wipers are maintained in good working condition and that your screen wash has anti-freeze in it. Make sure you keep your lights as clean as possible so that other road users are fully aware of your presence. These checks are especially important if you are undertaking a long journey.
Driving for the conditions
Finally, you need to take the less predictable road conditions into account in your driving. Drive more slowly than usual and be sure to leave a large enough gap between you and the vehicle in front. Braking distances will always increase in wet and wintry weather and you do not want to end up in a rear-end shunt with the vehicle in front. If there is ice or snow on the road, you should remain in as high a gear as possible and avoid braking suddenly, if you can.
Of course, even if you follow all the sensible advice that is out there, it is not always possible to avoid winter road accidents, especially if another driver’s negligence is the cause. If you have been unlucky enough to be involved in an accident, we would be glad to help you get the compensation to which you are entitled.
How we can help
All enquiries are free of charge and, in most of the successful cases with which we deal, our clients pay nothing for our services. For more information about any aspect of our personal injury claim services, please call us on 01343 544077 or send us a Free Online Enquiry.
