New rural road safety warning

Unexpected hazards can make journeys on country roads much riskier, says road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist. This summer brings more broken road surfaces and potholes than ever, with the additional risk of traffic signs obscured by hedges and trees adding to the danger faced by drivers.

GEM is therefore urging all road users to pay extra attention and expect the unexpected on country road journeys this summer. Traffic levels are generally lighter, but it’s a sad fact that 10 times as many people die in collisions on rural roads as on motorways.

A GEM spokesperson said: “Driving in the countryside can be a great pleasure. But this summer we’re concerned at the large number of poor road surfaces and potholes across the country which present a significant risk to safety. Add to this the number of traffic signs partially or completely obscured by vegetation and the risks only increase.

“That’s why we’re encouraging drivers to expect the unexpected and always to make sure they have time and space to stop safely if necessary. “Who has priority at the junction ahead? Are there signs to guide you? Is there a sold stop line?

“If you can’t see round the next corner, what should you be expecting? It could be another car or a motorcycle coming towards you too fast, a group of cyclists on a ride out, sheep or cattle crossing the road, a horse and rider, a wild animal, a deep pothole or perhaps a slow-moving tractor.

“Until you have perfect sight of what’s ahead, you need to anticipate what could be there. By adjusting your speed and position accordingly, you’re doing your bit to keep yourself and the other road users safe.”