Car accident risks 'double in Christmas drive home'

Dec 17 2007

Car Finance customers could double their risk of an accident simply by driving home for Christmas at the wrong time, a leading organisation has claimed.

Statistics from the RAC found that drivers - potentially including Car Loans customers - driving at peak times in the south-east are twice as likely to be involved in an accident as those at the same time in Warwickshire.

The company's road safety survey found that the safest roads in the UK were found in Hampshire, Hertfordshire and Worcestershire. Car Credit customers may experience the worst driving conditions in the Isle of Wight, Greater London and Lancashire, according to the findings.

Sheila Rainger, head of campaigns at RAC, said: "Christmas is traditionally a time to visit friends and family, but motorists must expect the unexpected and be aware that not all parts of the UK are equal when it comes to road safety.

"Unfamiliar surroundings, wintry conditions and overdoses of Christmas indulgence can make for a hazardous and stressful journey."

Last week, research by Car Parts Direct revealed that 40 per cent of drivers - such as loans customers - do not get their breaks checked before the adverse winter weather starts.

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