A driver of a motor vehicle has a responsibility to other users of the road to ensure that we all arrive safely at our destination – Drive to arrive. A motor vehicle has the potential to cause serious injury and/or death therefore care and attention is required at all times.
During the winter months as the weather turns the road conditions change to create seasonal challenges for road users. In particular cold temperatures create a number of issues such as :-
- Frosted windows
- Ice on the roads
- Tyre pressure
- Driver concentration
If you are a driver of a motor vehicle then it is worthwhile reminding ourselves as to the Highway Code which offers guidance in these changing weather conditions:-
Rule 228 – Icy and snowy weather
- In winter check the local weather forecast for warnings of icy or snowy weather. DO NOT drive in these conditions unless your journey is essential. If it is, take great care and allow more time for your journey. Take an emergency kit of de-icer and ice scraper, torch, warm clothing and boots, first aid kit, jump leads and a shovel, together with a warm drink and emergency food in case you get stuck or your vehicle breaks down.
Rule 229 – Before you set off
- You MUST be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows
- You MUST ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible
- Make sure the mirrors are clear and the windows are demisted thoroughly
- Remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users
- Check your planned route is clear of delays and that no further snowfalls or severe weather are predicted.
Rule 230 – When driving in icy or snowy weather
- Drive with care, even if the roads had been treated
- Keep well back from the road user in front as stopping distances can be ten times greater than on dry roads
- Take care when overtaking vehicles spreading salt or other de-icer, particularly if you are riding a motorcycle or cycle
- Watch out for snowploughs which may throw out snow on either side. Do not overtake them unless the lane you intend to use has been cleared.
- Be prepared for the road conditions to change over relatively short distances
- Listen to travel bulletins and take note of variable message signs that may provide information about weather, road and traffic conditions ahead.
Rule 231 – Drive extremely carefully when the roads are icy
Avoid sudden actions as these could cause loss of control.
- Drive at a slow speed in as high a gear as possible; accelerate and brake very gently.
- Drive particularly slowly on bends where loss of control is more likely. Brake progressively on the straight before you reach a bend. Having slowed down, steer smoothly round the bend, avoiding sudden actions.
- Check your grip on the road surface when there is snow or ice by choosing a safe place to brake gently. If the steering feels unresponsive this may indicate ice and your vehicle losing its grip on the road. When travelling on ice, tyres make virtually no noise.
Driving for the road conditions is so important to avoid disastrous situations. I have acted on a road traffic collision involving a single vehicle with a young driver and four passengers. The crash happened in the month of December when the weather was cold, the car windows frosted and the road surface icy. The driver failed to have regard to these weather conditions resulting in the car leaving the road causing the death of his front seat passenger and serious injury to the three rear seat passengers all of whom were his friends. The driver has to live with the consequences of his actions. If you are a driver then adapt your driving accordingly to ensure you drive to arrive safely.
Matthew Claxson, a Partner in the Serious Injury Team
This crash has not just ruined our daughter’s life but has changed all of our lives in a blink of an eye. Nothing will ever be the same again. I would implore all drivers when there is cold weather to slow down and be more careful.
The mother of Matthew’s client who was a rear seat passenger that suffered a brain injury.
Moore Barlow Personal injury solicitors specialise in acting on behalf of those who have either suffered serious injury or sadly bereaved claim from the party at fault rehabilitation, interim payments and recover compensation to help rebuild lives.
Contact us on Freephone 0800 157 7611 or at claim@moorebarlow.com
