Icy Winter Weather Brings Risk of Car Accidents to UK Roads

Winter has truly arrived this week, with large areas of the country receiving a blanket of snow and ice, creating treacherous conditions on roads and footpaths. South Eastern areas have seen more than 20cm (8in) of snow, which has left major roads with long delays as well as forcing the cancellation of several train services, including the Eurostar from London through the channel tunnel. Airports including Manchester, Aberdeen and Inverness were also affected, with long delays for travellers caused by a backlog of flights.

Cold weather accidents

During a cold spell, naturally it is important to take extra care when driving, or when walking. Hazards such as black ice can make roads and pavements far more dangerous than they might appear. Additionally, snowy weather can force traffic on busy routes to grind to a halt; some motorists might be left facing a night sleeping in their cars.

Winter driving checklist

When taking to the road in icy or snowy conditions, here are a few pointers to follow before you set out to help you to stay safe on the roads:

Clear all snow from your car, including any around the lights.
De-mist and de-ice your car fully before starting your journey.
Pack some useful equipment before you go including a blanket, wellington boots a spade and warm clothing.
If you are making a longer journey, it might be worth taking a flask with a hot drink and some food.
Tell someone at your destination that you are coming, and also what route you will be taking so that they can raise the alarm if you don’t show up.
Lastly, make allowances for taking more time than normal for your journey.

When the weather is really bad, delaying a trip might well be the best option. If you do decide to drive, a mistake many people make is not to modify the way they drive for the conditions. In snow and ice, slower driving is advised, as is keeping a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front.

Icy weather compensation claims

Camps Solicitors have been acting successfully on behalf of people who have been injured in accidents where they were not to blame. If you have been injured in an accident on the roads, whether in wintery conditions or not, and someone else was to blame, we can help you. Our accident claims lawyers will look at the evidence in your case and if we decide to take your claim on, we will act for you under a Conditional Fee Agreement, which means you will not pay a penny for our services.