Warning issued to 9 million drivers over concerns contributing to accidents
An urgent warning has been issued to the 9 million drivers across the UK as worries contribute to an increased risk of accidents on the roads. Recent research conducted by TrustFord has found that one in ten drivers aged 65 and over experienced an accident, a near miss, or lost control of their vehicle last winter. The current arctic blast sweeping across the UK is creating hazardous driving conditions, particularly for older drivers. The combination of rain and temperatures hovering around freezing point is making roads exceptionally treacherous. Unlike the more obvious hazards of heavy rain or snow, the current conditions are conducive to the formation of black ice – a thin, transparent layer that can be difficult to detect and resembles a wet patch on the road. For older drivers with potentially weaker eyesight and slower reactions, black ice poses a significant threat as it can be challenging to spot and manoeuvre around.
To boost driving confidence in winter, TrustFord is offering a free Winter Check specifically for drivers aged 65 and over. This service is available to drivers regardless of the make or model of their vehicle. The Winter Check includes a comprehensive inspection, with a technician conducting a thorough walkaround of the vehicle to provide drivers with complete reassurance. Stuart Cresswell, Motoring Expert and Aftersales Director at TrustFord, emphasised the importance of supporting older drivers during these challenging weather conditions. He highlighted that the current climate could lead to a ‘perfect storm’ of dangerous driving conditions and stressed the need for additional precautions to ensure road safety this winter.
Many older drivers express concerns about being overcharged or taken advantage of by mechanics, which often deters them from seeking necessary maintenance. In the past year, drivers aged 65 and over who felt they had been overcharged estimate an average excess cost of £209, amounting to a national total of £141 million. TrustFord aims to alleviate these concerns by providing older drivers with a free Winter Check, irrespective of their vehicle’s make or model. The initiative is designed to help older motorists feel supported within their communities and reassured about their vehicle’s condition, without the financial burden.
The unique challenges posed by winter weather conditions, such as black ice, can be especially daunting for older drivers. TrustFord’s initiative to offer a free Winter Check to drivers aged 65 and over aims to address these concerns and provide essential support during this critical time. By ensuring that older drivers have access to necessary maintenance services without the fear of being overcharged, TrustFord is playing a crucial role in promoting road safety and peace of mind for all drivers this winter.
As the UK braces for continued wintry weather conditions in the coming weeks, it is imperative for drivers, particularly older individuals, to take proactive measures to secure their safety on the roads. Initiatives like TrustFord’s free Winter Check offer a valuable opportunity for older drivers to receive essential maintenance services without financial strain. By prioritising road safety and providing support to older motorists, TrustFord is demonstrating a commitment to fostering a safer driving environment for all individuals, regardless of age or experience behind the wheel.
In conclusion, as winter weather conditions persist and driving hazards escalate, it is crucial for drivers to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to navigate safely on the roads. By availing themselves of services like TrustFord’s free Winter Check, older drivers can enhance their confidence and peace of mind while driving in challenging conditions. Let’s all work together to promote road safety and support drivers of all ages in staying safe during the winter months.