Personal injury
Potholes, peer pressure and poor conditions: What's making UK roads unsafe this winter?
The colder months bring concerns for road safety across the UK. Recent research conducted by law firm Slater and Gordon explores what motorists are thinking when it comes to UK roads, highlighting some key insights about road safety.
As the UK succumbs to the big freeze this winter, the colder months bring concerns for road safety. In fact, 65 per cent of the public believe poor road conditions are already a major safety concern.
Against this backdrop of existing concerns, slippery, frozen roads are expected to bring even more worries for those travelling this week.
Recent research conducted by law firm Slater and Gordon explores what motorists are thinking when it comes to UK roads, highlighting some key insights about road safety.
Nearly two thirds of people agree that potholes and poor road surfaces are a concern when travelling, with 48 per cent of respondents saying they actively avoid certain roads due to feeling unsafe. Additionally, 55 per cent believe that roads in their residential area have become more dangerous over the last year, with those in the North West and East of England having the strongest feelings at 60 per cent in agreement.
When considering winter weather, nearly one in four drivers reported further worry regarding icy or wet conditions providing more dangers and risk to driving. A total of 40 per cent felt less confident using their vehicle in the winter months, due to poor road maintenance.
However further concerns raised in the research also highlight concerns about peer pressure from other drivers. 34 per cent admitted feeling pressured to exceed speed limits due to other drivers, with considerations such as tailgating and overtaking.
Head of Serious Injury North, Matthew Tomlinson, provides comment on the research. “It is clear that there are a series of concerns that drivers share during the winter months. It is responsibility of all drivers to work together to ensure road safety is the main priority, especially when colder conditions provide further risk.
“There is no reason for drivers to provide unnecessary pressure for other drivers, when poor road conditions already increase danger. Patience and understanding are key to avoiding any poor decisions that can put lives at risk.
“This research also highlights a crucial point: more must be done to make our roads safer. With the new road safety strategy, we hope to see stronger policies focused on road maintenance and winter support.”
