BUSINESS drivers are among the worst culprits for not properly preparing for winter motoring, new research has found.

According to new research by AA Business Services (AABS), more than half will go to extreme lengths to avoid spending time defrosting their cars properly – with the most dangerous behaviour identified as ‘postbox’ windscreen syndrome, where drivers scrape a gap just big enough to see out of their windscreens before setting off on their journey.

Drivers also admit to using credit cards as ice scrapers, using anti-freeze to defrost ice on the inside of the windscreen, leaning out of the car window with water to clear a windscreen that has run out of screen wash and leaving the car running and unattended to allow it to defrost, increasing the risk of car theft.

Roger Williams, head of major fleets and leasing at AABS, said: ‘Our research showed some worrying behaviour from drivers in a rush to get to work and we’re concerned they’re going to be caught out by a sudden cold snap.

That’s why the AA is issuing road users with a ‘two-minute warming’ – encouraging motorists to take just a couple of minutes before every journey to make sure their vehicle is in roadworthy condition.’