Motorists urged to carry out ‘two-minute’ check | Tech News

Motorists are being suggested to full a easy check that takes simply ‘two-minutes’ to guarantee their car stays protected all through the autumn months.

The autumn season brings with it plummeting temperatures and unpredictable climate circumstances, creating a host of contemporary highway risks not encountered during the hotter summer season period. Venturing onto the roads with out correct preparation may depart you susceptible to these hazards, considerably heightening the probabilities of an accident or crash occurring.

Whilst many drivers anticipate challenges similar to icy surfaces decreasing grip or fog limiting visibility during the cooler months, these aren’t the one considerations to think about. Gary Dodd, a skilled driver with SCS Chauffeurs, emphasised that overlooking explicit risks can lead to ‘critical penalties’.

Gary defined: “People prepare for icy roads and fog in winter, but wet leaves can be just as dangerous. They drastically reduce tyre grip, increase stopping distances, and make skidding much more likely, especially on bends and at junctions.

“On leaf-covered roads, a small misjudgement can have critical penalties. As chauffeurs, we’re educated to anticipate hazards most drivers overlook, and at this time of 12 months, leaf-covered roads are one of the largest.”

Research conducted by the Highway Code and the Department for Transport has revealed that wet conditions can more than double stopping distances, with wet leaves contributing to a higher likelihood of skidding and accidents on UK roads during the autumn months. In 2022, nearly 30% of reported road accidents occurred in wet conditions.

Gary further warns that the risks go beyond safety. If not regularly cleared, fallen leaves can cause damage to vehicles:

• Blocked drainage around windscreens can result in leaks, corrosion, and long-term rust.
• Clogged ventilation systems can decrease airflow, put strain on air conditioning, and even cause engine damage.
• Sticky tree sap and leaf residue can mark or erode paintwork, often necessitating costly professional cleaning.

“Something so simple as not clearing your car of leaves may finish up costing drivers 1000’s of kilos,” warns Gary. “A two-minute check earlier than setting off can save a lot of money and doubtlessly forestall an accident.”

What to check in your vehicle in autumn

When carrying out your two-minute autumn vehicle check, Gary advises you have a look at the next:

• Treat leaf-covered roads like icy surfaces: scale back pace and increase stopping distances
• Clear leaves from windscreens, mirrors, wipers, and bonnets earlier than every journey
• Avoid parking underneath trees the place leaves accumulate shortly
• Keep gloves or a small brush within the car to take away cussed moist leaves safely
• Regularly examine drainage channels round your vehicle to forestall blockages