Northgate Vehicle Hire has teamed up with Van Excellence to deliver a four-month long winter safety campaign to keep Britain’s road users safe. 

Northgate Vehicle Hire and Van Excellence have teamed up to produce life saving tips for road users as the weather worsens and the dark winter nights continue.  With a few months of dark nights left ahead of us and the shortest day occurring in December, the first stage of the campaign focuses on road safety whilst driving in the dark.

With over 40% of road collisions occurring at night, Northgate Vehicle Hire is urging road users to be extra vigilant this winter, and follow six simple top tips for keeping safe. 

Colin Gilstin, group safety and environment manager at Northgate Vehicle Hire, said:

“As the nights are drawing in, now is the perfect time to remind road users of the simple steps they can take to avoid accidents this winter. It seems absurd that when there are fewer vehicles on the road, nearly half of all road collisions occur. By following our six step guide, road users can reduce the risk of an accident.”

1. Be extra vigilant for vulnerable road users

It is important to be prepared and aware at all times. Reduced visibility makes it harder to see pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists.

1. Check your headlights

Be careful not to place headlights too high and dazzle other road users. Regular checks are key to ensure that headlights are free from dirt and grease, making sure they are doing their job correctly.

1. Watch out for animals

Seeing tiny dots ahead could be your headlights reflecting in an animal’s eyes, so it’s important to slow down in case you need to bring your vehicle to a sudden halt. Deer tend to follow lights, so it’s important not to swerve around them as this may cause them to jump in front of the vehicle.

1. Be courteous with your high beam

Be sure to remember to switch back your regular lights as soon as you see another driver coming towards you as dazzling lights can cause accidents.

1. Clean your windscreens

Dirt on windscreens can often amplify glare at night, creating a visual hazard. Through keeping your windscreens clean you will ensure clear visibility.

1. Stop if you’re tired

Driving in the dark when you’re tired can pose the risk of drifting off to sleep at the wheel. Always stop for a rest if you’re feeling sleepy, or share the driving with a passenger to allow for naps on long journeys.