Car insurance claims rise in the summer
Making sure your car insurance is up to standard is a must for the summer months, new figures show.
Data from NFU Mutual car insurance shows 40 per cent of claims are made over summer as the sun shines and Britons head out on driving breaks.
"You should always be as aware of your driving in the summer as you are in the winter," said Laura Wood at NFU Mutual.
"Although conditions may appear better, you should not be complacent as there are still very real risks when you take to the roads in the summer months."
And government figures show you are three times more likely to die in a car crash on a rural road.
"Rural roads in particular can pose a threat as people may be tempted to put their foot down when they see a clear country lane ahead," Ms Wood said.
"However, don't assume it's safe to break the speed limit on rural roads just because there is less traffic.
"Above all, you should always ensure that you have full insurance as accidents do happen, regardless of the preparations you may take."
Top ten tips for driving in the summer:
- Driving in flip flops or bare feet can be risky as you do not get as much control over the foot pedals
- Keep a clean pair of sunglasses with you but avoid lenses which darken in strong sunlight
- If you know that you suffer from hay fever, take care when driving and only take medication that does not cause drowsiness
- If you are towing a boat, caravan or trailer, pay attention to following distances and do not speed
- If you take the scenic route, remember that on rural roads you may come across tractors or livestock. Tractors can stop or turn without warning so stay alert. It is also easy to get restless when slow-moving vehicles are holding you up, but impatience can lead to accidents
- Take a supply of water with you on long journeys and never drink alcohol and then drive
- Make sure your washer bottle is full - dead flies and dust on the windscreen can reduce visibility
- Have plenty of entertainment in the car for little ones who could distract you
- Avoid fatigue - make sure you stop and have a rest if you are feeling drowsy. Fresh air, a quick walk or turning up the radio may also help
- Pack the car sensibly, do not let anything block your rear view and try not to weigh the car down
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