As winter sets in and temperatures begin to fall, research by Aviva reveals the common errors drivers might make when setting out on the roads this season.

The research, which surveyed 2,001 Brits, reveals that a quarter (25%) are leaving their cars running unattended to de-ice screens and almost a fifth (19%) leave their car unlocked while popping into somewhere quickly.

By doing so, Brits may be unwittingly putting themselves at risk with most car insurance policies excluding thefts of vehicles while the car is unlocked or while the engine is running. Leaving your vehicle running and unattended is also an offence under Section 42 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 which states that drivers cannot leave vehicles running and unattended while on a public highway, otherwise known as ‘quitting’.

With winter often being wetter – as well as colder – the research also shows that a fifth (20%) of Brits have driven through floodwater or a ford. Although not illegal, doing so could result in motorists being unable to make a claim on their insurance policy, leaving them liable for any repair costs.

According to the research, weather continues to impact decision-making when it comes to driving attire. More than a third (36%) of Brits admit to wearing inappropriate clothing and footwear such as big winter jackets, wellies/snow boots or heels². Although  not illegal, these habits could be seen to go against the Highway Code if they prevent the driver from ‘using the controls in the correct manner’ (Rule 97). Drivers could face a £100 fine and points on their licence, which, in worst-case scenarios, can increase to a £5,000 fine or driving ban.

Other risky driving habits include driving when mirrors aren’t fully clear (17%), pouring boiling hot water over a car to de-ice it (14%) and driving in heels (11%).

Martin Smith, Motor Claims Manager at Aviva, comments: “All drivers are legally required to ensure their vehicle is roadworthy, which includes keeping windscreens, mirrors and numberplates free from snow, leaves, debris, ice, and dirt.

“While we all want to reach our destinations quickly, safety should come first, especially as the risk of accidents tends to increase during periods of adverse weather. Taking a few minutes to prepare your car – and to make sure you’re wearing the correct driving attire – can help you avoid accidents and hefty fines, which can be up to £1,000, as well as points on your licence or even a driving ban in severe cases.

“Never leave your car unattended with the engine on or keys in the ignition either. If you do, you might not be able to claim on your insurance, in the unfortunate event your car is stolen.”

Aviva’s five top tips for driving safely during tough weather conditions:

1. Lights: During adverse weather such as heavy snow or rain, using your headlights instead of daytime running lights makes you more visible to other drivers.

2. Gears: When starting off, use second gear to avoid wheel spin on ice and snow. Drive in the highest gear possible at a slow speed on flat ground. Use third or fourth gear when driving downhill, and a lower gear when turning. If you have an automatic car, consider using the manual override to select the right gear and avoid braking, which can cause skidding. Remember, stopping distances can increase tenfold in icy and snowy conditions.

3. Slow and steady: Accelerate and brake gently to prevent skidding. In wet and icy weather, stopping distances increase significantly, so leave plenty of space between your car and the vehicle in front. Winter tyres can improve grip in tough conditions, but you may need to let your insurer know if you plan to use them.

4. Be alert: Watch out for roads in shaded areas such as by trees or buildings, as black ice can form where sunlight doesn’t reach.

5. Never drive through flood water and take caution driving through fords or tides. Avoid driving through flood water where possible. It’s hard to gauge the depth, and you could become stranded or swept away. Just 30cm of fast-flowing water can move a car⁴ and during bad weather, fords and tides may be higher than usual. If in doubt, find an alternative route or wait for the water to recede. Even a small amount of water can damage an engine, so it’s best to be cautious.

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References:

1. ^{Data taken from 2,001 nationally representative UK consumers (aged 18+) from 02.10.2024 – 04.10.2024. Headline statistic created by: 53,646,829 (2022 ONS mid-year population estimate figures for UK adults, aged 18+) * 69.77 % (the number of those surveyed who admitted to a ‘costly car mistake’) = 37 million. A ‘costly car mistake’ is defined as:}

• ^{I have driven in gloves}
• ^{I have driven in a big winter coat}
• ^{I have driven even though there is snow on the top of my car}
• ^{I have driven even though the screen was not fully de-iced}
• ^{I have driven without checking that my number plate was clear}
• ^{I have driven even though the screen wasn’t fully clear}
• ^{I have driven even though I was too tired}
• ^{I have driven even though the mirrors weren’t fully clear}
• ^{I have driven through floodwater or a ford}
• ^{I have left the car unlocked to quickly pop into somewhere}
• ^{I have poured boiling hot water over a car to de-ice it}
• ^{I have driven in heels}
• ^{I have driven in wellies / snow boots}
• ^{I have driven, despite being under the influence from the night before}
• ^{I have left my car running to de-ice the screen and warm it up}

^{2. Those who have driven in a big winter coat and/or have driven in heels and/or have driven in wellies/snow boots.}

^{3. The dangerous driving habits during winter and whether this goes against the Highway Code:}

^{4. According to the Environment Agency.}

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