It can be easy to glaze over road safety when it’s brought up, and we get it – much of it you’ve heard before. But while many of us think we’ve got the basics nailed, when it comes to keeping you and your passengers safe it doesn’t hurt to have a reminder every now and then.
That’s why we’re helping to spread the message of Road Safety Week 2026, run by road safety charity Brake[1]. Particularly in the run-up to Christmas when the roads are likely to be busy, it’s always worth a reminder on how to be safe when we’re on the move. Every journey, every time.
How to stay safe on the road:
Allow more time for journeys
The festive season is a busy one, drawing high levels of road traffic as people reunite with family and friends for Christmastime. Because the roads are that much busier, it’s a good idea to leave more time for journeys than you usually would, not just so you can get there in time, but so you have as stress-free a journey as possible.
Check your vehicle
In all the festive hubbub, it’s easy to forget to check that your car is road-ready before you head off. To avoid the headache of a roadside breakdown, make sure to regularly check your car’s vitals – fluids, side mirrors, tyre tread and pressure, and electrics.
Avoid distractions
Whether you’re travelling alone, as a couple, or as a group, you want to make sure you’ve set everything up to reduce distractions when you’re driving. For those with kids, it may be worth setting up some entertainment for longer journeys such as small toys, busy books and travel games. If you’re carrying a passenger with a medical condition, make sure they can easily reach the medication or equipment they need. Make sure to carry plenty of water and snacks, too.
Be aware of vulnerable road users
It’s easy to forget the needs of other road users when you’re in your own little bubble, but you want to be aware of all the different types of vulnerable users on the road before you encounter them – not after. Pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders all require careful attention and slowing down, so make sure you’re not only looking ahead, but in your wing mirrors, too.
Don’t get behind the wheel if you’re tired
If you’re feeling tired, listen to your body, and don’t get behind the wheel. Even if you aren’t actively sleepy and have simply had a poor night’s sleep, recognise that your attention could wane in a heartbeat. You can be on the road and feel perfectly fine before tiredness hits, your reactions become foggy, and something potentially bad happens on the road. That’s why it’s important to check in on yourself before you get behind the wheel.
Let’s talk
With the festive season incoming and winter approaching, the roads are going to get busier and more unpredictable. There’s no way to completely eliminate the risk of an accident, but the next best thing is making sure you have the right protection in place if anything were to happen.
Speak to our friendly team today on 01524 848506 or at info@tic-insurance.co.uk.
[1] Road Safety Week | Brake
The information contained in this article is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute legal or other professional advice and cannot be relied upon as such. Should you have any queries, we recommend that you consult the appropriate professional adviser. The links provided in this document are for reference only. Please note that we are not responsible for the content of any linked site.
Back
