The most dangerous driving day of the year falls this weekend - how to stay safe

According to research, one day of the year sees the highest number of claims for collisions on UK roads - and it’s not far away.

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Data from Co-op Insurance found that Saturday 5 December is the most dangerous day on UK roads. Over the last seven years, the company has recorded the most claims for collisions on this date.

Compared to the rest of the month, Co-op Insurance experiences a 60 per cent increase for collision claims on 5 December.

Paul Evans, Head of Motor Insurance at Co-op, said, “With non essential shops reopening this week, and with only so many shopping days left until Christmas, it’s likely that Saturday 5 December could be even busier on the roads than previous years.

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“We conducted a brief poll on YouGov and as many as one in five of the people we asked said that they could be headed out in their car on Saturday.”

Things like an increased number of people on the roads for Christmas shopping, adverse weather conditions and shorter days all contribute to making 5 December the most dangerous day to be driving.

Which areas are most at risk?

The research concluded that the average age for drivers involved in a ‘Danger Day’ collision is 52, with certain parts of the UK more likely to see crashes than others.

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The top five regions for collisions on 5 December each year are:

Midlands, 17%East Anglia, 15%North East, 11%North West, 11%South East, 10%

Evans commented, “Evenings become darker, there’s more chance of icy roads and roads are generally busier - there are so many different factors in play at this time of year.

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“Fridays are also another busy claims day, as people often take to the roads earlier to make the most of weekend plans. We are urging drivers to take extra precautions by allowing additional time for journeys and suggest checking car lights and tyres before setting off.

“This is especially important at a time when there is increased risk on the roads.”

How to stay safe

These are the top expert tips to keep drivers safe during winter driving:

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Keep windows clean, as a build up of condensation inside, or dirt on the outside of windows, can cause reduced visibility when drivingBe sure that your vehicle is prepared for freezing conditions - top up antifreeze and have an emergency kit in the car containing essential items such as a de-icer and scraper, a shovel, boots, a torch, warm clothes, first aid kit, high vis vest and food and drink incase you get stuckCheck your tyres to ensure they have the correct pressure and enough tread for icy roadsFactor in additional time for journeys in bad weather, avoiding areas which might be prone to floodingCheck the weather forecast before you head off on long journeys, especially if you’re planning on driving to more isolated areas