Road traffic accident risks as winter sets in and half term traffic hits roads
Published: 27/10/2011
According to the AA, up to 15 million cars will hit our roads over the course of the week as families make the most of the last break before Christmas.
October half term, as well as increasing weekend traffic levels, also coincides with the clocks going back and thus the official start of winter, a calendar event that always increases the risk of road traffic accidents.
The breakdown company is encouraging road users to carry about essential safety vehicle checks. Keith Miller is the AA patrol of the year:
“With the night’s drawing in and clocks going back next weekend, check your car for any blown bulbs, including brake and fog lights, and give the windscreen a thorough clean – inside and out – as you’d be surprised what a difference it makes. Run your finger down the wiper blades to check for nicks and tears – it’s best the replace them at least once a year – and top up the windscreen wash with a proper addictive. You should also check the tyres, oil level and cooling system.
“These checks are important but if you don’t know what to do, many garages offer free or cheap winter car checks that will highlight common problems.”¹
With severe weather warning issued across the UK this week, it is also advisable to keep an emergency kit in the car, just in case.
Content correct at time of publication