Consumer accidents and breakdowns rise as winter hits UK
18th November 2011
New research suggests that the number of car accidents increases during the winter months due to bad weather. The number of breakdowns also increases, according to research by insurance company MORE TH>N.
As winter hits in earnest, flat batteries and cars being unable to start are the main reasons for breakdowns across the UK.
Additional statistics from the Department for Transport show that last year the majority of road incidents took place between 3pm and 5pm. Traffic levels are usually at their highest during this period due to school runs and people returning home from work.
Last December was the coldest recorded for 100 years and should we experience anything similar this year, it could it could be well worth investing in breakdown cover.
The range of breakdown cover varies significantly from policy to policy. It’s important to consider all the options before deciding on a policy which suits you perfectly.
Speed limit plans in limbo
A major incident which occurred earlier this month saw the biggest motorway crash in Britain since 1991. The 34-car pile up on the M5 killed seven people and left 51 people injured.
This has prompted the government to rethink the proposed 80 mph speed limit amid safety concerns.
Philip Hammond, the Transport Secretary, announced plans in September to adjust the UK speed limits from 70mph to 80mph.
The changes were proposed due to the fact that official Government research figures suggested that 49% of drivers were breaking the current speed limit anyway.
By increasing the limit, Hammond suggested that less people would, therefore, be breaking the law. He also noted that there could be notable economic benefits for motorists and the wider British economy due to shorter journey times.
The Government were due to consult on the proposal before the end of the year. It is, as yet, unclear whether the incident on the M5 has altered their view on the issue.
One thing is for sure though, the issue of road safety is now unquestionably at the forefront of the minds of the British public.
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