Driving hazards from leaves and sun

Ground frost, wet leaves, and a blindingly low sun have been identified as the natural occurrences most likely to cause drivers to be involved in a near miss or a collision in winter, according to an AA Motor Insurance study.

The study, which featured more than 14,000 motorists, suggests up to six out of 10 motorists have lost control of their car at some point as a result of icy road conditions. Wet leaves, often overlooked, can also prove hazardous, the AA’s Motor Insurance study reveals. Four in 10 of the respondents said they have skidded on at least one occasion due to a skin of wet leaves covering the road.

The AA also advises drivers to be mindful of cyclists when roads are slick. AA advises motorists to have sunglasses to hand to cope with low-level glare. “Winter brings increased risk on our roads, sun glare being one of them,” says Conor Faughnan, director of consumer affairs at AA Ireland.