The festive season is a time for joy, celebrations, and reconnecting with loved ones. But it’s also the most dangerous time to be on the road. December is consistently named the riskiest month for drivers, with road traffic accidents spiking significantly. So, why does this happen, and what can you do to stay safe? Let’s explore.
Why Are Road Traffic Accidents More Common at Christmas?
- Increased Traffic Volume- With an estimated 29.3 million journeys made in the lead-up to Christmas (RAC), the roads are busier than ever. This higher volume of cars, especially on single-lane rural roads and major motorways, naturally increases the risk of collisions.
- Adverse Weather Conditions- Rain, snow, and ice are common winter hazards that make driving tricky. Reduced tyre grip and poor visibility contribute to accidents. Simple steps like inflating your tyres properly and checking tread depth can help combat this.
- Driver Fatigue and Stress- Christmas preparations often lead to rushed schedules and late-night drives, leaving drivers tired and stressed. A tired driver has slower reaction times, and stress can make people less patient and more reckless on the road.
- Alcohol and Distractions- Alcohol-related accidents peak in December, with four in ten road fatalities involving at least one impaired driver. Add to this the distractions of passengers, festive music, or even sat-nav updates, and you’ve got a recipe for danger.
How Can You Reduce Your Risk?
- Plan Your Journey- Avoid peak travel times, like Christmas Eve or late afternoons. Start your journey early or travel later in the evening when traffic is lighter.
- Adapt to Weather Conditions- Check the forecast and plan accordingly. Consider investing in winter tyres and always clear ice or snow off your vehicle before setting off.
- Take Regular Breaks- Driving long distances? Stop every two hours to stretch, grab a drink, and recharge your focus.
- Avoid Alcohol- Designate a driver, use public transport, or book a taxi after festive celebrations. No drink is worth risking your life for.
- Manage Stress- Stay organised to avoid rushing. Fleet Service GB’s Wellbeing Workshops offer tailored advice to help drivers stay calm and focused during this hectic time. A relaxed driver is a safer driver.
Fleet Service GB: Helping Drivers Stay Safe
Fleet Service GB’s Driver Management Programme is an excellent resource for businesses managing multiple vehicles. Using their Achieve Software Hub, they monitor driver performance, provide personalised training, and support wellbeing. This includes:
- Real-time risk assessments.
- eLearning modules to upskill drivers.
- Daily wellbeing tips to keep drivers healthy and alert.
Their approach ensures safer drivers and reduces road risks, especially during high-stress periods like Christmas.
FAQs About Preventing Road Traffic Accidents Over Christmas
Why do road accidents increase at Christmas?
Accidents spike due to higher traffic volume, poor weather, driver fatigue, and alcohol impairment. Planning your journey and adapting to conditions can significantly reduce your risk.
What can businesses do to improve driver safety?
Businesses can use programmes like Fleet Service GB’s Driver Management system. It provides tools to monitor driver behaviour, deliver personalised training, and promote wellbeing.
How can Fleet Service GB help individual drivers?
While Fleet Service GB primarily serves businesses, their resources and insights—such as tailored wellbeing workshops and safety tips—can be valuable for any driver aiming to improve road safety.
FAQs About Fleet Service GB
What is Fleet Service GB?
Fleet Service GB is a UK-based company offering innovative solutions for fleet management, focusing on driver safety, wellbeing, and efficiency.
How does the Achieve Software Hub work?
The Achieve Software Hub monitors driver performance through risk scoring, telematics, and vehicle maintenance data. It also provides personalised training recommendations and wellbeing resources.
What industries does Fleet Service GB support?
They work with a range of sectors, from logistics to utilities, helping businesses manage fleets of light commercial vehicles.
Take the Pledge: Reduce Your Speed This Christmas
Small changes make a big difference. This festive season, join us in pledging to reduce your speed by 5mph. Slowing down gives you more time to react and can save lives. Let’s make this Christmas safer for everyone on the road.
