Every motorist will feel a certain amount of stress and anxiety when they get behind the wheel in winter. The conditions can make this a dangerous time to drive, but interestingly this is not actually the season when most accidents occur. Although accidents are common in winter, you will find that most actually take place in May, June and July. So, why is it that late spring and summer are more dangerous than winter?

New Drivers

One of the primary reasons that accidents are more common during the warmer months of the year is the fact that there are more new drivers on the road than in winter. People will usually take their driving test during warmer weather, plus schools are out so the roads are filled with inexperienced drivers. Statistics show that young and inexperienced drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents and this is a major factor why this time of year can be dangerous.

Longer Journeys

During winter, people try to spend as little time on the road as possible. It is a different story in late spring and summer when people are often out and about and travelling longer distances. People might be driving for holidays, road trips, weddings and family events that see them spending more time on the road. The more time that people spend driving – the more likely an accident is to happen.

Increase in Other Road Users

Another reason why there are more recorded accidents during the warmer months is that the roads will be filled with many different types of users. The warm and dry weather allows for cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians, which increases traffic and increases the number of vulnerable people that are out and about.

Car Issues

You will also find that motorists are more likely to encounter car issues during the warmer months. Tyre blowouts, overheating, low oil pressure and water leaks are all serious threats during summer which are amplified when there is more traffic on the roads.

Taking Care of Your Car Throughout the Year

As you can see, the warmer months can be dangerous for motorists but the winter can also be difficult. This is why it is important to take care of your car throughout the year, including regular maintenance, road tax, servicing, insurance and gap insurance. What is gap insurance? This is a type of cover that bridges the gap between an insurance payout in the event of a write off (the market value) and the amount originally paid/outstanding on the finance agreement).

Most would assume that winter is the most driving season but – although it is dangerous – it is actually the warmer months that you are more likely to have an accident and why you must be cautious all year round.

About the Author: John Loughran