Accidents could double as cold weather bites

The number of accidents on UK roads could double as a second bout of cold weather makes its mark as people return to work.

According to car and motorhome insurance firm Swiftcover, the expected increase in accidents for today January 4th and tomorrow January 5th will result from a combination of bad weather and millions of extra cars on the roads during rush hour.

The firm said that the school run, which accounts for 18 per cent of peak traffic, will add to the pressure on Britain's roads.

Swiftcover noted that the increase in claims made during the first two working days of 2010 will be over and above the standard 21 per cent rise in claims associated with the winter months of November to February.

Craig Staniland, underwriting director at Swiftcover, said that many motorists fail to adapt to the conditions and drive too quickly.

"Drivers should take this onboard as they head out onto the roads on January 4th and 5th; leave a bit earlier and drive more carefully. That way you hopefully won't see the New Year in with your car in for repair," he added.

At the end of last year, Co-operative Insurance urged drivers to plan ahead when making journeys by car.

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2010-01-04 14:05:43 © Moneyextra.com