Welsh drivers are amongst the least confident in bad weather with only 6% stating they’d feel confident to drive in wintery conditions, according to a study on winter driving. The study found that the number of confident Welsh drivers sits below half the UK average.
Wales is among the top three UK regions for least confident drivers. Over 54% of drivers even reported cancelling plans due to icy conditions.
The Winter Driving Survey, conducted by webuyanycar, the UK’s go-to online car-buying service, reveals where in the UK motorists feel most confident driving in icy weather conditions.
According to the study, motorists in Wales are least prepared with emergency supplies when it comes to carrying snacks (25%), spare coolant, oil and windscreen washer fluid (31%) and spare warm clothing (31%).
UK-wide the report also found that over a quarter of people fail to prepare for unfavourable weather conditions, with many unprepared with supplies in the face of a breakdown in bad weather.
The drivers who suffer most in icy conditions are new drivers with less than a year’s experience. 12% reported to have already experienced a weather-related accident.
Richard Evans, spokesperson for webuyanycar, shares the winter essentials drivers should have on hand:
“Driving in bad weather can be intimidating, particularly for new drivers who are less confident on the roads. There are several winter car essentials we recommend to drivers to prepare them for worst-case scenarios, these include:
- Ice scraper: It is illegal to drive with snow or ice on your windows, roof or number plate so having the appropriate tools with you at all times can save you from unsafe driving and prevent a fine or points on your licence.
- A torch and spare batteries: This can help with visibility in case of an emergency or breakdown, avoid wind-up torches as they can go flat.
- Hi-vis jacket and warning triangle: Although not a legal requirement in the UK, it is advised to keep reflective warning triangles in your car so that you can notify other drivers if you break down. You should place one at least 45 metres in front of your car and the other around the same distance behind it.
“When weather conditions are unfavourable, with ice, snow or rain, it is important to drive slowly, remember braking distance doubles when road conditions are compromised. If you need to stop suddenly, push firmly down on the brake and focus on steering. Tyres must have the right pressure and tread depth to make them safe for driving in wintery conditions. The minimum allowable tread depth is 1.6mm on all four tyres.
Driving in bad weather requires more care and concentration but it shouldn’t deter road users so long as they know how to travel safely.”
