With the weather finally warming up, the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) has urged drivers and riders to take particular care on country roads this bank holiday weekend.

Crashes on rural roads tend to be more serious, even in modern cars, and unfamiliar country roads hold many hidden risks.

Neil Greig, IAM Director of Policy and Research, said: “The lush grass at this time of year makes it particularly difficult to see round bends, so take corners with extra care. There is bound to be lots of wildlife tearing about, so be prepared.”

Summer is the peak season for rural road deaths and serious injuries, and 45 per cent of rural road deaths and serious injuries occur on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, most occurring when the weather is fine and the roads are dry.

Fair weather biking means that the number of motorcycle crashes also tends to go up in the summer months, with more than three quarters of motorcycle deaths and injuries happening on dry roads in fine weather.

“Weekend riders should be aware that twice as many bikers die on rural roads than on urban roads. There are also more serious or fatal biker casualties at the weekend,” added Mr Greig.

“If we all share the road safely this bank holiday, we can make sure everyone, on four wheels or two, gets the same enjoyment out of our unique countryside.”