Unprepared Motorists Could Skid Into Danger Warns Swinton

MANCHESTER, UNITED KINGDOM -- (Marketwire) -- 01/01/12 -- Swinton, the UK's leading retailer of car insurance, is urging motorists to prepare themselves for the icy conditions on the roads.

A recent study commissioned by the British Red Cross shows that only one in five motorists on the road this winter are prepared for the dangerous weather. Drivers failing to take the necessary precautionary measures for winter driving may result in a road accident and claims on motor insurance policies, both of which could ruin your Christmas.

Research from the British Red Cross also revealed that last year bad weather spoilt Christmas for over half of the population.

Swinton is offering the following advice to steer motorists clear of a 'bah humbug' Christmas:

-- Check your route for road closures and delays before starting your

journey

-- Carry a kit in your vehicle containing a list of emergency numbers,

battery operated torch, first aid kits, toiletries and water

-- Keep well back from the road user in front as braking distance will vary

and could be up to ten times greater than on dry roads

-- Drive slowly in a high gear and accelerate and brake gently

-- Drive slowly around bends as loss of control is more likely, brake

progressively on a straight, steer smoothly around corners

-- Always check grip on the roads by choosing a safe place to brake. If the

steering feels unresponsive this will indicate ice

-- If skidding occurs do not apply the brakes and slowly steer in the

direction that the rear end is moving

Steve Chelton, Claims Manager at Swinton said, "It's essential that motorists prepare for icy conditions on the road. Always let somebody know that you're about to start the journey with a rough estimate of how long it will take. Black ice is hard to see and can be a danger, if skidding occurs remain calm behind the wheel. If you become nervous pull over safely, it's not worth skidding into a miserable Christmas."

About Swinton

-- With 603 branches nationwide Swinton is the UK's largest high street

insurance retailer

-- Unlike many other companies in the financial services industry, Swinton

is committed to keeping its branches open for business, and part of the

community

-- Swinton provides a one-stop-shop for the insurance and related needs of

its clients, offering home, car, caravan, business, holiday, motorbike

and even classic car insurance

-- With a dedicated team of advisors on hand at every branch to search a

panel of insurers to offer quality cover at competitive rates.

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