Top tips to help stay safe on the roads this autumn

New Aviva data reveals that autumn weather – such as wind, rain, fog, and slippery roads – accounted for thousands of motor claims over the last few years. Between 2020-2024, over a quarter (27%) of road collision claims were made in the autumn months.^[1]

To help drivers stay safe and ensure that their vehicles are ready for the colder months, Adina Stoean, Vehicle Damage Assessor at Solus (Aviva’s own network of vehicle damage repair centres), has created a 10-step ‘ultimate’ checklist:

1. Check that your car lights and bulbs are clean and working properly. As the nights start to draw in earlier you may be more likely to be driving in the dark, so it’s good practice to check that all your lights - such as headlights, brakes, fog, rear and indicator lights - are clean and in working order. Not only are faulty or dirty lights dangerous as they impair your vision and could cause a collision, driving with inadequate lighting is illegal and could lead to you facing a fine. Many car manuals have instructions for changing lights, but if you’re unsure or not able to change them yourself, head to a mechanic or your local garage who will be able to help you.
2. Check tyre pressure and depth. It’s recommended to have a tyre tread depth between 3-4mm - around the thickness of a pound coin - to help to improve steering and braking in your car in less favourable road conditions. It’s equally important not to over-inflate your tyres to prevent slipping.
3. Check your windscreen wipers. Wiper blades - which help clear rain, dirt, leaves and other debris - can become worn or damaged during autumn and winter weather, so it’s important for all drivers to check they are functioning properly. Failing to have working windscreen wipers can increase the chances of an accident. 
4. Inspect your windscreen. As the weather changes it’s important to check your windscreen for any damage or small cracks which could affect your ability to see the road ahead. Cracks can be distracting and, if not treated, can increase in size as the colder weather sets in. It’s also a good idea to have a demister pad or cloth on hand to deal with condensation on the inside of your car. 
5. Be alert to wildlife. As the days shorten, drivers are more likely to be using roads during dusk and dawn when wildlife is generally more active. Between September and October last year, there was an 82% increase in claims involving animals on the road.^[1] Animal behaviour can be unpredictable so be sure to drive slowly, give yourself ample time to brake, and be particularly alert on quieter country roads or stretches with wildlife warning signs. Try to avoid swerving across the road where your car could become a hazard to oncoming traffic. 
6. Prepare for changing weather. It’s always a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your car in case of a breakdown. Keep a blanket and waterproof clothes in the car in case you need to wait for a recovery service, keep your mobile phone charged, and use hazard lights and a warning triangle to alert other road users to your presence.
7. Check your brakes. Slippery roads can mean that vehicles can take longer to stop so it’s essential to ensure your brakes are in good condition. If you notice anything unusual, such as strange sounds or reduced responsiveness, visit your local garage or mechanic as soon as possible to ensure that they are working effectively.
8. Avoid driving through flood water. After periods of heavy rain, it’s best to avoid driving through flood water where possible. Not only can the depth of flood water be deceptive - even shallow-looking water can be deeper than it appears - it can conceal potholes, debris, or damaged road surfaces which could damage your vehicle. It only takes a small amount of water to seriously damage your engine or brakes and, with an average claim causing £6,638 worth of damage and 60% of flood-related motor claims resulting in a total write off, if you’re ever in doubt, try to find an alternative route.^[2]
9. Check your car battery. If your car or car battery is over five years old, it is possible that the 12v battery may no longer be working as effectively. Colder weather can put strain on a car’s battery and affect its charging capabilities, so it’s wise to check your battery before the temperature drops. If you own an electric vehicle, cold weather may also reduce your driving range, so factor this in when planning journeys and charge routines.
10. Reduce the impact of sun glare. Driving in low sun can impair visibility, which can be a common occurrence with shortening daylight hours. Aviva data reveals that collision claims caused by slippery roads or low sun conditions rose by 15% in Autumn last year.^[1] Making use of your car’s sun visors and keeping sunglasses to hand in the car are just a couple of ways to help navigate low sun. Don’t forget to also check your screen wash is topped up, as a dirty windscreen can lead to light scattering, making it difficult to see the road clearly.

-ends-

References:

^1. _{Aviva motor claims relating to collisions from 2020 to 2024 [↑]}

^2. _{Aviva motor claims relating to flood from 2024 [↑]}

Enquiries:

Alice Constable +44 (0)7350 398942

Amy Penn +44 (0)7385 011200