Nearly Half Of All Motorists Fear Driving In Winter Weather
A new survey has revealed that nearly half of Britain’s motorists are afraid of taking to the road in winter weather conditions…
Winter Weather Woes
Britain’s no stranger for inclement weather. Our winters are dark, gloomy and wet. But exposure doesn’t seem to have done much for our confidence. A new survey of 1,000 drivers discovered that nearly half of them (46%) feared driving in snowy or icy conditions. It’s also shed light on specific fears. For instance, 36% of women would rather avoid motorways during winter weather conditions. For 25% of men, however, the source of concern is navigating towns and cities. Some 16% of motorists, regardless of gender, are also anxious about taking to rural roads during the colder months.
Conducted by Young Driver, a driving experience provider for under-17s, the general consensus is that many drivers don’t experience winter driving conditions whilst learning to drive. For instance, 16% of learners never experience different roads at different times of day. In addition, 8% of urban-based learners never have take a lesson on a rural road.
Sue Waterfield, head of marketing at Young Driver, emphasised the need for learners to encounter a diverse range of driving experiences. She said, “it makes sense that youngsters should get as much experience – and as varied experience – as possible before they pass their test”. She added, “from driving in the dark or adverse weather conditions to different types of roads at different times of the day; it’s vital that drivers feel prepared for any situation. Even driving different types of cars and vehicles is important to give a different perspective and driving experience”.
Keeping Safe
Despite winter conditions being, as a general rule, unsafe, there are simple steps drivers can take to keep themselves comfortable and confident whilst behind the wheel. If you’re confident in your car, you’ll be more confident in your driving. Which is why it makes sense to get your car properly serviced in preparation for winter. In particular, tyres should be inspected for sufficient tread depth, lights should be inspected and batteries tested. Knowing that your car is up to the task can be a big source of comfort when confronted with snow, ice and fog.
As for drivers themselves, exposure is everything. If a driver didn’t have lessons in winter conditions, it might make sense to take more with a specific focus on dealing with snow, ice and darker mornings and nights. Or, at the very least, to take a few practice drives with an experienced friend or family member. Regardless, it always makes sense to travel at reduced speeds, to leave more space between vehicles and to carefully plan longer journeys during winter. It’s also worth ensuring that you pack a good coat, torch, spade and first-aid materials, too; should the worst happen, you’ll be in a better position to get yourself out of danger.
Millions Of Drivers Skipping Festive Journeys This Christmas – https://autoserveclub.co.uk/blog/millions-of-drivers-skipping-festive-journeys-this-christmas/
Car Accidents: One In Four Happen In The First Three Minutes Of Driving – https://autoserve.co.uk/motoring-news/car-accidents-one-in-four-happen-in-the-first-three-minutes-of-driving/
