The number of accidents increased by 20 percent due to abundant snow

Abundant snow has become a serious examination for the country drivers. According to the largest Lithuanian non-life insurance company "Lietuvos draudimas", the number of accidents and damages last day was higher approximately 20 percent. The statistics of the last few years demonstrate that abundant snow, fallen out for the first time during the year, is capable to increase the number of accidents up to one and a half times.

"Notice of change in the number of accidents during the last day was significant, but not dramatic. In addition, an average damage of the one accident from the usual 700 euros dropped to 500 euros. That means that small accidents, when cars are facing at low speed in the car parking places, backyards and traffic jams, are dominating", - states Artūras Juodeikis, the head of Claims department of "Lietuvos draudimas".

According to him, "Lietuvos draudimas" received one-fifth higher number of reports about car accidents on Tuesday. It is predicted that this number will be about 500. In comparison, so far in this winter season there were about 400 reports per day on Tuesdays. 

The main causes of accidents were conditions on the roads and streets, determined by the changeable weather. However, the risk was also increased by the careless driving, improperly selected speed, vehicle condition and various road marking violations. 

"As shown by the latter day, weather and road conditions in the winter season can change in a very short time. For example, leaving to work in the morning people may find themselves in a completely different traffic conditions, compared to those that prevailed returning from work yesterday. In this case, there is no time to adjust to new conditions, contrary, there is an immediate need to drive with maximum attention and caution", - said A. Juodeikis.

Drivers should note that while driving on snow covered roads braking distance can increase up to 2 times or more, compared to the wet roads. They should also evaluate that some maneuvers may become more complicated and drivers need more time to complete them. For example, on the snow covered road the car moves from its place slower, so drivers should carefuly calculate both - their and other road users - speed and do not create an unexpected obstacle.

In these days drivers are also advised to carefully assess their daily trips and time spent on them, providing that they may need more time because of unforeseen obstacles. "Colleagues are often excusing for being late due to traffic jams or slippery roads on wintry days. It is a good idea to plan daily trips with a certain margin of time", - recommends A. Juodeikis.