Three Tips for Avoiding Accidents on Scotland’s Roads this Winter
Storm season is bearing down upon us and as much as the Met Office may warn us to stay in our homes,
unfortunately, this isn’t always possible. Unlike Scotrail, we don’t get to stop when the rain picks up, we
have careers and families that depend on us being able to drive. Which is why we at Scottish Accident
have compiled a list of our top tips for driving safely on Scotland’s Roads this winter.
According to the Department for Transport statistics, 22% of Scotland’s car accidents happen in poor weather conditions.
Take it slow
If you are living or working in Glasgow, you will be aware that it rains… a lot. In fact, it rains 167 days a
year on average. Now during a storm, when that rain is at its heaviest there can be a lot of surface water
on the road. Creating the perfect conditions for hydroplaning. That’s when your car’s tires “float” across standing water, causing a loss of traction — and more critically, a loss of control. Keeping speed in check will help keep tires firmly planted.
If your car does hydroplane, try not to panic and resist the urge to slam the breaks. If you have front
wheel drive, firstly identify a safe open space (if possible) to steer the car into. The hydroplane shouldn’t
last long, but you will need some space to regain control of the car. Push very lightly on the accelerator
as you steer towards the empty space. This will give the vehicle time to adjust to the new driving
environment and give you greater control.
Did you know you are more likely to have a car accident in Glasgow than in any other region in Scotland?
Turn your headlights on
When driving in poor conditions it is vital that you are visible to other drivers, pedestrians and other
road users. Turning on your headlights won’t only make you more visible it can also improve your ability
to judge distances. In fact, failing to use the appropriate dipped lights when visibility is reduced could
land you a £50 on-the-spot fine if stopped by police.
Maintain a safe gap with the driver in front
The gap between you and the vehicle in front is your braking space in a crisis. In wet conditions, you
should leave at least four seconds, and in ice or snow, drop as far back as possible. Research has shown
that stopping distances can be doubled in the rain and can be up to 10 times further in icy weather.
Never hang on someone else’s taillights, as this can provide a false sense of security and mean you’re
not fully focused on the road. It can also cause unnecessary stress to the driver in front.
What to do if you are in an accident
Unfortunately, not all accidents are avoidable, but if you follow the above tips you can minimise the
risks that you pose to yourself and other drivers. The way other road users drive, however, is one of the
variables out with our control. So, whilst vigilance is key avoiding car accidents in Glasgow or any of
Scotland’s other major cities or traffic networks these things can’t always be prevented.
If you have been involved in a car accident that was not your fault, you can contact us here, to talk to one of our claim management experts. Our goal is to provide you with the most comprehensive and professional guidance for handling your compensation claim.
With over 35 years’ experience specialising in motor and road accident claims, we are uniquely placed to
manage your claim and repair your vehicle promptly and safely.