Winter driving campaign launches as cold weather hits

With the first frost of the season in some parts of the UK this week, road safety charity the Institute of Advanced Motorists has launched its winter driving campaign.

The move comes in response to increased accident rates in winter thanks to more dangerous driving conditions.

Slippery roads (due to weather) contributed to 13,420 road casualties in 2011, and related to 79 fatalities. Meanwhile, rain, sleet, snow or fog was the cause of 1,786 reported road casualties in 2011 and travelling too fast for conditions was a contributing factor in 13,425 accidents in the same year.

Intended to help motorists prepare their cars and drive them safely this winter, the campaign includes a website containing advice, traffic updates and weather forecasts. The charity will also publish weekly news release and driving tips in reaction to winter weather.

The IAM also reported that during February 2012, freezing rain fell across northern England causing treacherous conditions on roads and pavements; 100 road accidents were reported from Cumbria, and A&E departments dealt with hundreds of falls on icy pavements.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: "The first thing you need to ask when the weather is bad is whether you need to travel, and if so, if there are alternatives to the roads.

"When you are on the road, be prepared to slow down and take extra care, particularly on bends and roads which are open to the elements."


Winter driving campaign launches as cold weather hits:
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