Fulfilled living in later life
Beware skids if you’re driving home for Christmas

Monday 9th December 2024

Beware skids if you’re driving home for Christmas

Louise Morse

A motoring expert has warned all drivers to be extra careful on the roads after a new study has found that a standard safety feature most of us knew nothing about is failing. While most of us are complaining about the thousands of potholes and cracks (according to the RAC, there are currently more than one million potholes) we’re not aware that in recent years there’s less skid resistance on our road surfaces than there used to be. It’s a real risk to motorists, especially when the temperature drops, says Dan Jones, Operations Manager at the vehicle track day company DrivingExperience.com. Skids cause collisions and insurance claims, and the expert’s warning comes at a time when many drivers over the age of 70 are having to pay inflated fees for car insurance.

According to DrivingExperience.com, who used data from the Department for Transport (DfT), 572 road collisions in 2023 were due to defective road surfaces. A further 4,458 collisions were due to slippery road surfaces caused by poor weather, which were likely impacted by roads without effective levels of skid resistance. Mr Jones said, "This new data raises serious concerns about road safety, particularly in wet or icy conditions, with weather changes often cited as a contributing factor. In addition to giving extra comfort to drivers, new road surfaces are often also designed to feature measures that prevent skidding and lower braking distances. However, without enough investment into maintenance, these features can diminish over time, putting road users at risk.

"While we recognise the challenges posed by Government finances, we urge decision-makers to prioritise road safety, regardless of the factors affecting road conditions." Drivers are also urged to check their tyres.

Skids can lead to collisions and damage and to insurance claims, and older car drivers are paying far more than other age groups in fees. Insurance costs have been branded “discriminatory” with over 70s "paying more” than other age groups for coverage. Analysis from Compare the Market has revealed the typical premium for those above 80 has increased since 2023 by a staggering 27 percent. Now a new Parliamentary Petition against the discrimination has just been started and is gathering signatures. Many older people need their cars to avoid being isolated and for simple journeys like shopping, or socialising. They are generally experienced drivers and account for only 10 percent of all accidents in the UK.

More on staying safe while getting around...