Now the insurance company Folksam gives tips on how to avoid accidents in Christmas traffic.
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Reduce speed
– Lowering the speed and keeping a distance are our main tips, the time gain with higher speed is much smaller than you think. But also packing the car correctly and safely, something you might not think about is that loose objects can cause personal injury if they hit a passenger, says Anders Ydenius, traffic researcher at Folksam.
Studies also show that four-wheel drive increases the accident risk by 20 to 30 percent compared to two-wheel drive. The reason is that four-wheel drive brings a false sense of security that makes you take unnecessary risks.
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Tips to avoid accidents
When winter hits with snow and ice, the risk of accidents on the roads increases. Here are some simple tips to help you arrive safely.
You need to think about how you drive your vehicle:
Take it easy: Slow down and drive just below the speed limit, especially in poor road conditions. It reduces the risk of accidents and serious injuries in the event of a collision.Keep your distance: Have plenty of room for the car in front – it can make a difference in a critical situation.Avoid overtaking: Overtaking on slippery roads greatly increases the risk of accidents.Don’t drive too fast: Research shows that we tend to overestimate friction in winter, which can be life-threatening.DON’T MISS IT
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At the same time, it is important to take into account what kind of car you drive:
Tires that can withstand Nordic winter: Make sure you have either studded tires or Nordic studless winter tires. Avoid all-season tires that are not adapted for winter.All-wheel drive is not flawless: With four-wheel drive, slipping can feel less noticeable, which causes many people to drive too fast. Studies show that four-wheel drive cars crash to a greater extent than two-wheel drive cars.Electric cars require planning: Cold and heavy loads shorten the electric car’s range. Be sure to plan the charges carefully and avoid the battery level falling below 20 percent – it can be decisive if you get stuck in a traffic jam.It is especially important to pack correctly:
Check the car’s maximum weight: Both the car and the roof have limitations. Do not exceed these.Smart placement: Place heavy items low and close to the backrest. The light luggage must be at the top and secured with cargo nets or luggage nets.Consider the roof load: Many cars can only handle 75-100 kg on the roof. Don’t forget to factor in the weight of the roof box – an empty box can weigh up to 30 kg.nh2-general
