A LEADING motoring services company is urging company car drivers to stop using washing-up liquid as an alternative to screen wash.

Obscured vision is a contributory factor in up to 20% of the country's annual road traffic accidents and Auto Windscreens believes that rather than cleaning away the dirt, many motorists are making matters worse by using washing-up detergent.

Executive director at Auto Windscreens Richard Usher said: 'Too many motorists are using washing-up liquid to top-up their washer bottles without realising the potential dangers that lie ahead.

'Rather than cleaning away the dirt, detergents such as this create a build-up of grease on the screen, which when caught by direct sunlight can make it virtually impossible for the driver to see clearly.'

The organisation is also concerned that many motorists also think nothing of driving around for several days with an empty washer bottle and don't check the condition of wiper blades from one year to the next.

Usher added: 'By neglecting these basic safety measures, motorists not only risk receiving a fixed penalty notice if caught, but they should also be aware that ensuring better visibility could play a significant role in reducing road deaths.'