Grieving Altrincham mum sends heartfelt plea to drivers as darker nights creep in
New figures reveal a third of drivers plan to hit the road during the upcoming school holiday, with many navigating unfamiliar roads in limited light
As roads get darker earlier and half-term getaways ramp up, drivers are being urged to take extra care behind the wheel this winter - particularly on unfamiliar routes.
Driving in the dark is far more challenging, especially when you're somewhere new. Add in distractions or creeping over the speed limit, and you're not just putting yourself at risk - you're facing serious financial consequences too.
New figures reveal that a third (32%) of drivers plan to hit the road during the upcoming school holiday, many navigating unfamiliar roads in limited light. The warning comes amid growing concern over distractions and financial strain linked to unsafe driving behaviour.
According to the data by road safety brand OOONO, over a quarter (26%) of drivers admit being distracted by their car’s infotainment system, which led or nearly led to a crash at least once.
With road conditions deteriorating in the colder months and visibility reduced, safety experts are urging drivers to prioritise focus and caution - especially when venturing into unfamiliar areas.
Experts are asking motorists to slow down, stay alert, and avoid any distractions behind the wheel.
The clocks go back later this month, meaning evening commutes will soon be in near-total darkness. Combined with wet and icy conditions, the potential for serious accidents increases sharply.
Driving in the dark is more dangerous, particularly on unfamiliar roads. Add distractions from onboard tech or the temptation to rush, and the risks quickly multiply.
Paula's story
Paula Allen's son, Marcus Simmons-Allen, was 18-years-old when he was killed by a dangerous driver in Altrincham in October 2021.
She said: "They're so unpredictable our roads, especially in winter with ice and speed.
"We see it all the time and it does bring dread, because we see on the other side of that coin, just what dread is.
"It's not the driving skill, it's the lack of being able to handle the weather, the adverse weather conditions as they may fall upon you of an evening or first thing in a morning.
"It's the speed that you may be travelling, it's the maintenance of your vehicle, your tyre tread and also our eyesight.
"You need to be uber aware of the road conditions and how you are driving because most, if not all, collisions and fatalities especially, are all preventable.
"Keep your speed low, keep your braking distance, keep it a little bit wider, do not tailgate.
"And let's just be uber aware of our surroundings and the road conditions. The cemetery is full of fantastic drivers. That is one cruel, cruel message.
"We're heading for Christmas. We don't want any empty chairs around our table this Christmas."
The guidance before driving this half term is to plan, avoid fatigue and distractions, use driver alert tools and to check your vehicle.