Too few motorists 'prepared for safe winter driving'

Date: 3/11/2011

New figures have shown that one in three drivers are not properly prepared for winter driving and could be at greater risk of being involved in accidents.

Research published by Manheim Auctions has shown that fewer than five per cent of drivers are planning on buying winter tyres despite forecasts of another winter characterised by chaotic weather.

It also found that only one third of drivers would carry warm winter clothing with them, while a quarter would keep jump leads to hand, only 21 per cent would pack a shovel.

The survey found that the top winter tips people gave were to top up screen wash, carry an ice scraper and to ensure the driver owns enough antifreeze. Carrying de-icer, checking water levels and carrying a reflective jacket were also in the top ten recommendations.

Earlier this month, the Institute of Advanced Motoring called on local councils to resist cutting back on winter road services such as gritting.