Research carried out by mobility solutions specialist, easytrip, Ireland’s only electronic parking and tolling tag provider, has revealed that 43% of drivers fear icy road conditions the most during the winter months.
One in five motorists who responded to the research also highlighted their dislike of driving during the shorter and darker evenings as the clocks go back on October 28th to mark the start of winter time.
Poor driving conditions
The easytrip research asked motorists about their least preferred winter driving conditions which uncovered the top dislikes as:
- The glare from other driver’s headlights (29 per cent)
- Poor visibility of cyclists on the road (28 per cent)
- Driving in heavy rain (24 per cent)
- Driving in the fog (18 per cent)
- Poor visibility of pedestrians on footpaths (13 per cent)
- Increased traffic on roads (11 per cent)
- Defrosting car windows (10 per cent)
Vehicle breakdowns
The winter months tend to bring an increase in roadside breakdowns and when it comes to who a motorist would call in the event of an incident most drivers (65%) naturally selected their breakdown assistance provider.
However, the easytrip survey also revealed that one in six motorists would contact a family member first, and one in eight would contact their insurance company.
Commenting on the research, Colin Delaney, CEO of easytrip said: “Our research has highlighted poor visibility as a key concern which can increase with the longer hours of darkness. Winter driving can be stressful for all road users and as a motorist we need to be alert at all times during poor driving conditions.
“We are advising motorists to remember to check your lights regularly to ensure they are in good working condition, turn on your dipped headlights, keep your distance from the car in front, take your time, and know who to contact in the event of a breakdown. It’s vital to make sure we are safe, and we are seen, and this applies to all road users.”
Easytrip offer a range of services to motorists including breakdown assistance with easyAssist, Puncture Protect, as well as parking and tolling with the use of the easytrip electronic tag.
For more information log onto www.easytrip.ie or call 1890 67 67 68.
