Survey shows UK drivers will not be prepared for winter journeys

A new survey in the UK has revealed that nearly two-thirds of drivers (63%) do not check their anti-freeze, oil or water levels before setting off on a journey in winter.

The 2013-2014 Annual Road User Satisfaction Survey (ARUSS) by the Highways Agency survey also found 45% of drivers do not do any checks on their vehicle during winter.

The Highways Agency, which spends one year preparing for winter, is encouraging road users to check that they and their vehicle are fully prepared for severe weather.

Roads minister John Hayes said: "The Highways Agency is well prepared for winter, whatever the weather, and does all it can to keep our roads open. But everyone needs to play their part.

"Just a couple of minutes of preparation, making important vehicles checks and giving yourself extra time to plan your journey before you set off, can ensure you and your fellow road users have a safe trip this winter."

When the ARUSS asked more than 1,000 drivers regarding the checks, 41% said they checked their lights were working before setting out and 53% of drivers do not have warm clothes in their car in case of emergency.

While 42% of drivers said that they carry de-icer in their vehicle, 64% do not carry drinking water.

Only 33% of the drivers carry a warm drink, whereas 32% take food and 37% said they packed a blanket.

On-Road Services for the Highways Agency head John McTaggart said: "Drivers should really keep an emergency winter kit in their vehicle, in case something goes wrong during a winter journey.

"Crucial items like warm clothing, food, warm drinks, a road atlas, shovel, torch, ice-scraper and de-icer could really help if your vehicle breaks down in bad weather."

The Highways Agency claimed that in order to deal with winter weather, it has kept 290,000t of salt ready for spreading on roads, a fleet of more than 500 winter vehicles, 90 depots and 240 weather stations around the country.