One in three European motorists admit they will drive this winter without being able to see out of their windscreen properly, according to research by Continental AG.
This will mean 6 million close calls on our roads this winter, as nearly two million drivers were close to crashing at least three times in the last year because their windscreen wasn’t clear before setting off. Researchers found most motorists think they are in too much of a rush to fully defrost their windows and mirrors before heading off to work. It also emerged men are far worse than women at pulling off the driveway while peering through a tiny spot of clear glass at the road ahead.
Continental, which polled 4,000 drivers said: “’Preparation is key when setting out in your car, especially during the winter months. It is essential to be able to see and be seen. An astonishing 52% of people know it is wrong to drive without a fully clear windscreen but fail to do anything about it.”
The company also took the opportunity to remind drivers of its 3mm and winter tire safety messages: “Check your lights, ensure your windscreen and windows are clear, that your brakes are in good condition, your tires have a minimum of 3mm of tread and increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front.”
It also emerged that 40% of motorists don’t bother cleaning mirrors or rear windows before setting off in the winter. Seven out of 10 never check tire tread depth and fail to ensure tires are roadworthy, and 50% never put anti-freeze in radiators. Four out of 10 don’t check windscreen washer bottle levels and a similar figure don’t bother to check whether their wipers are working properly. A quarter don’t even check if their lights are working. (Tyres & Accessories)