With the winter weather upon us with snow, ice and cold dark mornings when we set off to work or school and dark when we return, it’s time to ensure you continue to stay safe.
Statistically, the most dangerous hours for cyclists are 3.00 to 6.00 p.m. and 8.00 to 9.00 a.m. on a weekday. However, cycling accidents in the dark are more likely to be fatal, which is why it’s vital to be extra cautious.
So, whether you walk, cycle or drive to work and your children walk or cycle to school, personal injury specialists Bartletts Solicitors have some top tips for staying safe:
- Make sure your children have the necessary safety gear with them when they go to school. This includes a helmet, high visibility jacket and lights fitted to their bike if they are cycling and reflective clothing if they are walking.
- Before setting off on your bicycle, make sure the lights at the front and back work. Check the lights’ batteries regularly, especially before longer journeys.
- Wear a helmet and high visibility clothing when cycling in the dark.
- Check your car and make sure it’s ready for winter. This includes checking that the headlights, indicators and windscreen wipers are working, and that there is screen wash in the water tank. As the roads can also become hazardous from freezing temperatures in the winter, it’s a good idea to keep de-icer in the car and to take a hot drink and warm clothing with you when driving at night in case of a delay or accident.
If you’ve been the victim of an injury or accident that wasn’t your fault, contact the personal injury experts Bartletts Solicitors. We can give you free advice on making a claim for compensation, so please call today on Chester: 01244 405 399 or Wrexham: 01978 360056 or email advice@bartletts.co.uk