Road safety: Anticipation is the key to avoiding hazards

This week he is advising on identifying hazards.

> Look further ahead so you see things earlier and have more time to deal with them.

> Think about what could happen – a side road may have a car in it, a parked lorry may have a pedestrian crossing behind it – anticipate what may develop.

> Use road signs and understand their message - junction signs give early notice that a driver may be trying to pull out into your path.

> Observe others and what they are doing. Expect and plan for their actions as they develop.

> Use your mirrors so that you are aware of who is behind you and what is going on – especially motorcyclists and cyclists.

> Hazards include bends and junctions. Expect that there may be a car emerging or a cyclist around the bend, this will allow you enough time to respond safely.

> IAM chief examiner Peter said: “Hazards can be anything from a tree branch to a child walking along the pavement. Anticipating what other road users might do is key to being prepared and becoming a safer driver.”

To help drivers stay safe this winter, the IAM has launched a new website, drivingadvice.org.uk, with traffic updates, weather forecasts and tips on how to drive safely in winter.

Tips cover rain, snow, ice, fog and wind – everything you can expect in a typically unpredictable British winter. Check it out before you travel.