A new survey by Brake, the road safety charity, claims that only 16% of motorists avoid driving in the snow, despite being concerned about safety while driving in inclement weather.
Despite this apparent complacency, many respondents said they are concerned about safety in bad weather, and lack confidence in their fellow winter drivers. 95% said that many drivers travel too close to the vehicle in front in snow and ice, while 92% think many go too fast in snow and ice.
Julie Townsend, Brake deputy chief executive, said: “The most important message is to err on the side of caution and not drive if it’s snowing, forecast to snow, or there are other dangerous conditions.
“Ice, snow, heavy rain and fog make driving incredibly risky; stopping distances double in the wet and can increase 10-fold in ice and snow, and if you can’t see clearly you can’t react to hazards.
“We are also urging drivers to be prepared. Listen to forecasts, and make sure your vehicle is properly maintained and kitted out.”
For more information contact Ellen Booth on 01484 550067.
How many drivers have space to store 5 or 10 or more tyres, year-round? Or can afford to pay commercial firms to store them?
Or to pay for 5 or 10 tyre changes and balances every year?
Sensible driving in bad conditions, in contrast, costs nothing (not that it stops the tailgater behind you of course, but then again, nor do winter tyres). Indeed, being able to stop much more effectively than the chap behind you can in some circumstances be more of a problem than a help, as I know to my cost.
Idris Francis
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I can not understand why in the UK we are not required to have winter tyres. Having fitted my winter tyres for the winter season surely this makes good sense and for safer driving.
Just like Tesco “every little helps!”
Gareth, Surrey
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