Stay Safe This Christmas…
The festive season is well and truly here, which means it’s a time for family, joy, and celebration.
But it’s also that time of year when the roads get especially busy and in the cold, wind and rain, that can mean it’s a dangerous time to be on the road.
With the hustle and bustle of the festive season as we all rush around trying to get ready for the big day, it’s easy to forget that safety should always come first.
Staying Safe On The Roads At Christmas
As the days get shorter and we’re driving on the road when it’s dark much more often, it’s important to remember that road safety is of paramount importance.
With the cold weather comes additional safety concerns as ice, snow, and frost cause issues with the roads and your vehicles.
Winter conditions can be treacherous and being prepared is crucial. Snow and ice can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, which means it’s essential that you take extra care when driving.
If you're planning on some last-minute Christmas shopping, be sure to leave plenty of time to get to your destination.
And if you’re travelling to see family, working, or on the roads for any reason over the next week or two, make sure you’re prepared and ensure you take pay proper care and attention to the weather conditions and the traffic.
Ensuring your vehicle is in good condition before driving is even more crucial at this time of year because it can help to reduce the risk of accidents. Make sure you’re well-rested and alert before you get behind the wheel and perform a basic check of the vehicle.
That means checking your tyres are inflated to the requisite pressure and that your brakes are in good working order. Leave time to de-ice your vehicle properly too as this can cause significant visibility issues if not done correctly.
The Key To Winter Road Safety…
If you're travelling long distances, make sure to take regular breaks. This will help you stay alert and reduce the risk of fatigue-related accidents.
So, to help you, we’ve got a few tips to help keep you safe on the roads this Christmas and New Year…
- Increase your following distance to allow for extra stopping time on slippery roads
- Use your headlights and turn signals to improve visibility and communicate your intentions to other drivers
- Avoid using cruise control in snowy or icy conditions
- Be prepared for sudden changes in weather and road conditions
- Keep an emergency kit in your car in case you get stranded (that means water, blankets, phone charger, flashlight, and food)
- Take regular breaks on long trips to reduce the risk of fatigue
- If you start to skid, take your foot off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go – don’t brake or accelerate suddenly
Remember, the number one most important thing this Christmas is spending time with your loved ones.
Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and we’ll see you in 2024!
