As winter sets in and Christmas is nearly upon us we need to steer clear of traffic accidents as along with the drop in temperature, the roads around Stockport and Manchester are going to be even more congested.
With the pressure of extra traffic, unwelcome dark days and inclement weather, the accident rate on the roads, sadly, increases dramatically. More car crashes occur in the run-up to Christmas than at any other time with December 17 the worst day, when crashes are on average twice as likely to occur. Insurance claims relating to car crashes are, on average, up by 53 per cent overall between December 18 and 24.
Preparing For Christmas on the Roads
Along with the usual driving tips, such as taking more time, forcing yourself to be patient and maintaining awareness at all times, there are a number of extra tips we can all take heed of that will prepare our cars for the cold and icy weather, and keep us safer on the roads during the Christmas season.
The RAC provides a step by step list of how to prepare your car winter, including the following tips.
1. Check Tyres
Having a good tread on your tyres is essential so that your tyres can hold the road as much as possible during wet and icy conditions. Look for damage on your tyres, such as splits or bulges and check the pressure.
2. Check Headlights
Some days are so dark in the run up to Christmas that you will need to use headlights or sidelights all day. Make sure all the exterior lights are working correctly to maintain your visibility to other drivers.
3. Check Wiper Blades
Make sure the windscreen wiper blades are in a good condition, for good visibility. If there is any damage, replace them. There is nothing worse than a smearing windscreen when you are driving in the dark on busy roads.
4. Check Levels
Maintain the correct level of oil, coolant and washer fluid and make sure that they are between the minimum and maximum markers.
5. Keep Battery Charged
Check you car battery weekly to make sure that it is charging correctly – this is particularly important if the battery is more than 4 years old. If you do not use the car for several days over the Christmas weekend, make sure you can start the car when it’s time to go back to work!
6. Add Screen Wash
Make sure that your have enough screen wash and that the concentration is suitable for cold conditions. Not all screen wash is the same, so look for the temperature which goes down to -35c.
Additional Car Survival Kit
There are a number of items that It is also recommended that drivers gather and keep in the car – just in case.
These include:
• Ice scraper and de-icier
• Torch and spare batteries (or a wind up torch)
• Warm clothes and blankets
• Boots
• First aid kit
• Jump start cables
• Shovel
• Reflective warning sign
• Road atlas
• Mobile phone charger
Take Care on the Roads to Avoid Christmas Accidents
We ask all our clients and friends to please be careful during the coming months and consider stocking your car with the appropriate equipment to aid you and your passengers to stay safe.
Despite this, we know that accidents do happen. If you are unfortunate enough to experience a car accident this Christmas, whether it is your fault or not, make sure you get the right representation.
Expert Opinion provided by Harold Stock & Co
Greater Manchester signs Friendship Cities Agreement with Austin, Texas 
Companies House and HMRC to close joint online filing service 
Traders and residents laud thriving Stockport Market