Winter Driving Safety

Winter Driving Safety Tips: Minimising the Risk of Road Accidents

November 13, 2024/in , /by

Driving in the winter is not an easy thing to do. Drivers often face adverse road and weather conditions. Once the clocks go back at the end of October, driving can suddenly become hazardous. The winter brings with it long periods of darkness, flood, snow, fog, and other bad driving conditions.

In such driving conditions, we, at Bonnar Accident Law, advise you to not get on the road at all unless necessary.

In this guide, the road accident lawyers from Bonnar Accident Law have chalked out tips for driving in winter conditions such as snow, ice, rain, floods, fog, strong winds, and low sunshine.

Read the guide further so you can plan your road travels better and make your journeys safer.

Get Your Vehicle Prepared for Winter Driving

When autumn approaches, it’s always a good time to prepare your vehicle for the winter. Don’t wait until the last moment; as with everything, during peak season, everything you need for safe winter driving will be in demand and, in turn, expensive.

First off, get your vehicle’s anti-freeze tested. You should have your vehicle serviced completely. If that isn’t an option financially, you can at the least do the following checks:

  • All lights are clean, working, and bright enough to be visible under a thin layer of rain, snow, etc.
  • The battery of your car is fully charged and will not die out on you if you get snowed in, or get caught in a storm
  • The windscreen, all windows, mirrors, and wiper blades are clean and working, and the washer bottle is filled with screen wash
  • The tyres are in perfect working condition for winter, the tread depth is ideal, and the tyre pressure is perfect. Always do these checks on the spare tyre as well
  • Ensure that brakes are functioning properly before you get on the road
  • All the fluids in your car such as windscreen wash, anti-freeze, and oil are filled up to the right amount and correct concentration to avoid freezing

Apart from these safety checks, any road accident lawyer in the UK will tell you also to keep de-icer, anti-freeze, extra wiper blade fuses, and windscreen wash with you before winter starts.

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Always Keep an Emergency Kit When Driving in Winter

As you head into winter, be prepared for any unforeseen consequences. You may get caught in a snowstorm, your car may break down during a long journey, you may be stranded on the motorway, etc. Keeping these worst-case scenarios in mind, experienced road accident lawyers will advise you to keep an emergency kit in your car, especially if you are heading on a long journey.

We understand that these may seem like excessive safety measures, but you never know when luck may not be on your side. Imagine yourself stranded in a snowstorm, a flood, a fog, etc., and you will be thankful you kept an emergency kit in your car.

A good emergency kit for the winter will include items that help you stay warm, keep you hydrated and energised to maintain body heat and let rescuers and road assistance crew find you easily.

Here are a few items you can keep in your winter emergency kit:

  • Wellington boots
  • A shovel
  • Tow rope
  • A glass-breaking tool, in case you get trapped cause of an accident
  • De-icing equipment
  • A hazard warning triangle, with blinking lights
  • A basic first-aid kit
  • A torch with fresh or rechargeable batteries
  • A car blanket
  • A set of warm clothes, one or two spare in case you have passengers or help out others on the road
  • Emergency rations, keep a flask for non-alcoholic hot beverages, energy bars, granola bars, biscuits, or whatever can help you stay energised
  • A battery bank for your smartphone should be at least double or triple the mAH of your smartphone’s battery, and charge it at home before you get on the road
  • A portable charger to charge your devices while you are moving on the road
  • A spare set of clothes to change into in case you get drenched or soaked

Keep these and you will be well-prepared for every kind of road emergency out there.

Prepare According to Your Unique Journey

Before planning a long journey or even a short sprint to a nearby village or town in the winter, always check the local news, travel bulletins, and national weather broadcasts. Check your area, the route you will be taking, and the destination you are going to. Check regularly and make a decision based on the data you see. Remember, nature is very unpredictable, the weather conditions can become adverse or even fatal within a matter of minutes.

If your local weather broadcasts or emergency services have issued a warning to not travel due to the weather conditions, then the best course would be to postpone your travel. But since individual journeys and your circumstances are yours to understand, go ahead if you must, but be careful and pay attention to how to navigate the weather conditions in winter as we have mentioned ahead.

What to Do If You Must Travel

Here are a few tips you can keep in mind if you have to travel at all costs despite the weather conditions. We, at Bonnar Accident Law, formulated these tips after a wide range of road accident claims we have handled over the years. Here goes:

  • Always let someone know the exact time you will be leaving, the expected time you will be reaching your destination, and which route you will take. In case there is no contact with you or you don’t reach your destination, your contact can inform the authorities. Decide with your contact frequent checkpoints and timestamps when you update them on how far you have covered your route. Keeping someone informed at regular intervals is a great practice in case things go south
  • Always explore all routes you can take towards your destination. Plan on pitstops where you may have to wait out the weather. Always plan multiple routes to your destination in case you have to reroute midway due to the weather
  • Fill up your fuel tank completely before heading out to ensure you don’t have to worry about running out of it. Similarly, make sure all the windows and mirrors are cleaned and cleared of any snow or ice. Make sure your heater is working properly and the car is made warm enough to keep your windscreen clear throughout. Visibility will naturally be low during adverse weather and you don’t want to be struggling with a foggy or dirty windscreen
  • Keep your mobile phone charged fully before heading out. You don’t want to run out of charge when you may need it. If you can, avoid draining your battery by putting songs on it via Bluetooth unless you are using Android Auto or Apple Car Play
  • Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. At the least, always keep an extra pair of boots, warm clothes, a torch, energy bars with long shelf life, and maybe a thermos with a warm beverage inside

Hope these small details will help you in the most critical of times.

Winter Driving Safety

Tips for Driving in Snow or Ice

Remember, if you are driving on icy, snowy, or snow-covered roads, you have to be able to manoeuvre your vehicle expertly. One small mistake can turn deadly.

Here are a few tips from Bonnar Accident Law on how to drive in snow or ice:

  • Maintain a manageable speed and never go over the speed limit at any cost. Snow and ice make the roads slippery, and that will make your stopping distance much farther than it usually is on dry sunny roads
  • Travel at a speed that gives you enough margin to stop your vehicle successfully. In ideal conditions, the speed limit is the maximum you can push, but that becomes too fast when conditions are worse, so reduce your speed accordingly
  • Don’t reduce your speed suddenly, don’t steer sharply, and don’t accelerate instantly. All of these scenarios may result in not being able to handle the vehicle you are driving
  • Brake slowly to reduce your speed smoothly and give your vehicle time to stop in slippery conditions
  • Slow down way ahead of corners and bends as not giving your vehicle enough time to stop may swerve you uncontrollably
  • Icy and snow-covered curves are extremely dangerous when braking your vehicle. If you brake suddenly or don’t give enough time to stop, the centrifugal force will spin your vehicle making it lose the already compromised grip
  • To brake successfully in snowy conditions, let go of acceleration early so your vehicle drops speed and goes into a lower gear. If brakes are needed, be gentle and press the clutch early so your vehicle’s engine doesn’t stall
  • The ideal gap between you and the next vehicle should be up to ten times the normal distance for braking
  • Even though the vehicle heater is necessary for keeping you warm and the windscreens clear, make sure that your vehicle is well-ventilated. If the inside gets too warm, it can make you drowsy and take away the critical attention you need on the road
  • If you are driving in too much snow, make regular stops at safe places to clean your wheels, lights, number plates, windows, mirrors, etc.
  • It is crucial to stay visible in snowy conditions, so keep your headlights dipped
  • Be aware of the road when driving as the road will never be uniformly wet, covered in snow, frost, ice or snow. There will be patches here and there as you drive, so one side of your vehicle may skid or slip rather than the entire vehicle. Be extra careful before, under and after bridges and flyovers

Hope these tips help you navigate the snowy and icy road conditions.

What to Do If You Get Stuck in Snow

It is very common that when vehicles get stuck in the snow, drivers try to rev up their engines to get out of the rut. This barely ever works. Instead, get your vehicle in the highest gear, and rock your vehicle back and forth till you get out of the rut. In case this doesn’t work, you can always signal for help, and ask passers-by or other road users to stop and help your vehicle out of the rut. Alternatively, you can use the shovel you brought to clear out the rut and try to get your vehicle out of it.

What to Do If You Get Caught in a Snow Drift

It is advised never to leave your vehicle. The first thing you should do is call the emergency services or breakdown services, whichever is available, and let them come and help you out. Another common mistake is when drivers keep the engine running to stay warm. Don’t do that, instead, layer up and wait for help.

When Driving in Winter Rain

If you are driving in the winter rain, Bonnar Accident Law advises you to follow the same tips we mentioned above. Since rain causes a visibility issue for most drivers, keep your wipers at the recommended speed to look ahead. Your normal braking distance will increase two to threefold your usual braking distance. Keep the windscreen wipers on, and use the washer in case the windscreen starts getting murky. Keep your headlights dipped and navigate your car accordingly. Drive slow with a safe distance so you can see the dangers up ahead and manoeuvre your vehicle likewise.

Beware of Aquaplaning

Whenever you drive too fast into a surface of water, the tyre treads of your vehicle lose the necessary grip to propel you forward. The water becomes the wedge between the tyres and your vehicle will start floating. To avoid aquaplaning, ensure that you drive slowly in the rain, have deep tyre treads, and have the right air pressure inside your tyres. In case you do face aquaplaning, ease off the brakes and the accelerator. Let the vehicle speed drop and let the tyre regain contact with the road once more. Once that happens, navigate your vehicle safely through the thin sheet of water.

How to Navigate Flooded Roads

Here are a few tips on how to navigate through flooded roads:

  • Near the kerb, the water will be the deepest, so avoid driving your vehicle through that
  • Water can be very tricky from the surface as you won’t be able to gauge the depth. If it looks too deep or you can’t assess how deep it is, don’t drive blindly into it hoping to make it to the other side
  • If the water body is too large to cross and you can’t see the other side where the road begins again, or you can’t assess how deep the water is, find an alternative route. There is no need to take your vehicle into a pool where it may get stuck and stop completely
  • If you think the water is navigable, be cautious, drive slowly and use the first gear to drive through. To avoid slipping the clutch or stalling your engine, keep the speed high
  • Approaching vehicles can cause a bow wave that will endanger both you and the approaching vehicle. Use a courteous ‘give way’ with the oncoming vehicles. Go before them or let them cross first

Always remember, once you are out of the flooded road or the pool of icy water, recheck your brakes. Sometimes being too long in the water can compromise the integrity and strength of the brakes. Don’t immediately hit the accelerator thinking to get away from it.

road accident lawyers

Tips for Driving in Winter Fog

Remember, out of all the bad weather conditions to drive in, fog is the worst. The low to almost zero visibility can quickly lead to a fatal mistake. Since most vehicles drive closely in foggy conditions, one wrong step by one driver can quickly affect all the other vehicles.

You should avoid driving in fog unless you must take that journey.

Here are a few tips for driving in foggy conditions:

  • Get updates from local weather and road authorities, and follow the guidelines given by the national or local media
  • Expect that your journey will easily take twice the time
  • Check your car condition including tyres, lights, mirrors, wipers, heater, demister, etc.
  • Keep the speed as low as possible since you need to keep the right amount of distance and visibility between you and other road users
  • If the visibility reduces, turn on your headlights or even the fog lights if necessary, but keep them low
  • If you can see the car in front of you, keep your lights low to not dazzle them, and similarly don’t use rear fog lights if you can see the rear vehicle in your rearview mirror
  • Use the windscreen wipers, heater, and demister as required
  • DO NOT rely on the rear lights of the vehicle in front of you as you will be too close to them. You have to keep in mind that the distance should be enough for safe braking. Additionally, keep your spatial awareness on the road as you wouldn’t want to bandwagon into a ditch by blindly following the vehicle in front of you
  • Do not listen to music or distracting noises. Slightly roll down your window so you can hear other traffic on the road, especially if you know or your GPS alerts you to a junction or a crossroads
  • If you suddenly see the fog clear up, don’t speed up immediately, go slightly faster than you were before. Fog drapes down in patches often, so you may suddenly get into another dense patch where a higher speed may lead to an accident
  • If your vehicle breaks down or you want to wait out a small patch of fog, always park your vehicle off the road. Never stop abruptly or anywhere on the road. Immediately turn on your hazard lights and keep them on even if you turn off your engine. You should be highly visible to anyone who is within a braking distance from you

The road accident lawyers at Bonnar Accident Law have dealt with numerous cases that happened due to fog. Be careful out there.

Tips for Driving in Strong Winter Winds

Here are a few tips for driving in strong winter winds:

  • Always hold on tight, and stay in the middle of the road or lane. Don’t drive on the edges, especially the further edge of the windward direction
  • If there is a bridge you have to cross on strong winds, go slow. If the bridge is too long and you can see it swinging and rocking, don’t go on the bridge. Stop before the entrance, park your vehicle on the side and encourage others to stop too
    If your vehicle is a high-sided vehicle such as a tall truck, don’t go out during warned strong winds

Tips for Driving in Low Sunshine Winter Months

Here are a few driving tips for low sunshine conditions during the winter in the UK:

  • During the winter months, the sun is usually too low in the sky for a visor to be effective. Don’t get blinded by the glare. Use sunglasses that are anti-glare but not too dim for you to see clearly
  • Keep your speed reduced and manageable since you want to be able to handle your vehicle in any road condition
  • You can clean your windscreen and windows from the inside and outside and keep them grease-free to avoid glares
  • If you are wearing sunglasses during the day to avoid the glare of the low sun, immediately take them off in low light conditions, especially during the nighttime. You do not want your visibility compromised by the dark tints

Hire Bonnar Accident Law for Winter Road Accidents

We hope that by following the above mentioned tips you can avoid any unwanted or unfavourable results on the road during the winter.

Should you be unfortunate to face a road accident during the winter, you can call the road accident lawyers at Bonnar Accident Law. We will help you assess your case, take care of the paperwork, and eventually get you the claim you deserve; all at no-win-no-fee!

construction site accident lawyers

Construction Safety Made Simple: Tips from Bonnar Accident Law

November 11, 2024/in , /by

The construction industry is vital to the UK’s infrastructure but also among the most dangerous. Implementing safety measures isn’t just a legal obligation but a responsibility that ensures every construction site worker returns home safely.

In this guide, we chalk out the essentials of construction safety management and offer practical advice on how to make your worksite as safe as possible.

In the unfortunate event that you find yourself in a construction site accident, construction site accident lawyers from Bonnar Accident Law can help you with the claim.

Be sure to read this guide to understand how to avoid it in the first place.

What is Construction Safety Management?

Construction safety management refers to the strategies, policies, and procedures that minimise the risk of accidents and injuries at construction sites. This involves creating a structured approach to identify potential hazards, train workers, and enforce safety standards. The aim is to prevent accidents, reduce risks, and ensure legal compliance with health and safety laws.

Implementing the Best Construction Safety Management

There are several key components to an effective construction safety management plan, and we’ll discuss the five most important steps below:

1. Identifying All Kinds of Hazards

Before any project begins, it’s crucial to identify the potential hazards on site. Hazards can be physical, like falling from scaffolding, or health-related, such as exposure to hazardous materials. A risk assessment is required at every stage of the project to spot these risks early on.

How to implement:

Walk through the construction site and create a checklist of possible dangers, then assess the level of risk each hazard poses to the workers.

2. Implementing Robust Policies and Plans

Once hazards are identified, develop the best policies and safety plans to mitigate potential hazards. These are the rules and procedures construction workers follow to ensure safety. Such policies are always clear, accessible, and regularly updated to reflect new standards or changes in the project.

How to implement:

Create detailed safety guidelines, covering everything from PPE (personal protective equipment) to emergency procedures. Communicate them exhaustively and thoroughly to all construction team members.

3. Setting Comprehensive Safety Objectives

Safety objectives are measurable targets that help ensure everyone is focused on maintaining a safe working environment. These can include reducing incidents of falls, maintaining clean work areas, or achieving zero accidents over a certain period.

How to implement:

Define specific, achievable safety goals and review them regularly to monitor progress. This ensures your safety no matter which construction site or project you are on.

4. Conducting Safety Training

Even the best safety policies are not effective if the construction site workers aren’t trained adequately. Hold regular training sessions to help everyone understand the risks and teach them the correct safety procedures. The training must be tailored to the specific hazards that you may face during your particular construction project. For example, the risks of falling and how to cater to such incidents will be useful for construction workers who work on scaffoldings day in and day out.

How to implement:

Maintain a thorough schedule of training, especially when new tasks, machinery, equipment or projects are introduced. Ensure everyone on the construction team is certified in first aid and machinery operation. Do not let workers guess their way around new equipment.

5. Establishing the Right Reporting Procedures

Have clear reporting schedules as it will allow everyone on the construction site to communicate safety concerns or report incidents and accidents promptly. Always have a channel open for everyone. Any risk should be quickly and effectively communicated to prevent future accidents.

How to implement:

Create a simple system for reporting accidents or hazards. You can use a digital app, a project management tool, written forms, or even a communication tool such as WhatsApp. Encourage workers to use it without fear of retaliation. Additionally, you can incentivize reporting by giving free snacks or points that can be availed later on for a short leave or even a day off.

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The Most Common Safety Hazards in Construction

Understanding the specific risks at a construction site is key to prevention.

Here are the top 15 safety hazards that workers need to watch out for:

1. Falling from Heights

Falling from scaffolding, ladders, or roofs is among the top causes of construction site injuries. You may lose your balance, slip, or be improperly secured.

How To Avoid It:

Ensure that you use the proper fall protection equipment such as harnesses. All equipment such as ladders and scaffolding should be inspected regularly to ensure the nuts and bolts aren’t loose.

2. Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slips, trips, and falls are the most common hazards at any workplace, even if it isn’t a construction site. We have witnessed that anyone can easily slip, trip or fall if the surface is uneven, or if there are things like loose cables around, other reasons can be if cleanliness isn’t prioritised, housekeeping isn’t effective, or workers are careless in spilling oils, lubricants, etc and not cleaning them prompltly. These small acts of carelessness can lead to serious, often life-altering, injuries.

How To Avoid It:

Keep your construction site / work place as tidy as possible. Follow all protocols. Secure cables, and use anti-slip mats where spills are common. Practice and implement returning machinery and tools immediately after use.

3. Struck-By Accidents

Other common hazards at construction sites are being struck accidentally by a moving vehicle, falling tools, swinging machinery, scaffolding coming loose, and being nudged or bumped by someone using equipment that has a hard recoil.

How To Avoid It:

Establish exclusion zones around heavy machinery. Ensure that only the operator and relevant personnel are within that zone. Clarify movement routes around power tools and machinery being used. As a construction site worker, wear bright helmets and high-visibility clothing to stand out.

4. Electrical Hazards

Electrical hazards are common reasons for which construction site accident lawyers help you claim compensation. These can be caused by live wires, exposed circuits, improper wiring, thin wires, faulty equipment, etc. Unfortunately, if the electrical equipment isn’t maintained or operated properly, it can lead to shocks, burns, or even fatalities.

How To Avoid It:

Have a certified electrician handle all the wiring and electrical cabling at your construction site. Ensure that all electrical equipment is properly grounded and regularly inspected. Wear the right shoes and gloves that help if and when electrical hazards may happen.

5. Confined Spaces

There may be numerous tasks that may require a construction site worker to work in a confined space such as tanks, tunnels, trenches, etc. The most common injuries in such places are suffocation, toxic exposure, or even entrapment.

How To Avoid It:

Train construction site workers to effectively and safely work in a confined space. Rely on thorough procedures that help them before, during and after a task has been completed. Always have an emergency plan in place and brief them on it beforehand. Additionally, if one construction worker is in a confined space, have a spotter or supervisor look out for them from outside. This will help take action quickly in case something goes wrong.

6. Heavy Machinery Operations

Operating cranes, bulldozers, or excavators carries a high risk of injury if not properly controlled. Always have a trained and certified operator handle heavy machinery equipment and vehicles. Don’t let anyone else operate heavy machinery.

How To Avoid It:

As mentioned, only trained and certified operators must use heavy machinery. Regularly perform maintenance checks to ensure the heavy machinery is working perfectly.

7. Falling Objects

Materials and tools fall off from heights regularly when construction site workers are on scaffoldings or a higher job site. Depending on the weight and sharpness of the tool, it can seriously or fatally injure a worker.

How To Avoid It:

Use guardrails, netting, etc., to secure tools and materials when working at heights. All tools being handed manually should be secured by safety wires to the person using them.

8. Hazardous Materials

Exposure to chemicals like asbestos, solvents, or silica dust can cause respiratory problems and other long-term health issues. Sometimes these injuries can stick with you for life. A reliable construction site accident lawyer will get the right compensation for you that will ensure future ease as well.

How To Avoid It:

Ensure workers wear protective gear and are trained to handle hazardous materials safely. All hazardous materials should be disposed of properly as per the required guidelines.

9. Fire and Explosions

Faulty equipment, flammable materials, or welding work can cause fires or explosions. These are quite common at any construction site. When working with machinery and tools that cause sparks, ensure a safety zone to avoid any fire or explosion that may happen.

How To Avoid It:

Conduct fire risk assessments, keep fire extinguishers on-site, and store flammable materials safely. There should be no smoking areas in or around the construction site. Maintain a safe zone outside the construction site where open fire or smoking is allowed.

10. Noise and Vibration

Prolonged exposure to loud noises or constant vibration from machinery can lead to hearing loss and musculoskeletal disorders. Diggers and heavy drills, when used frequently and without proper breaks in between can also lead to these injuries. These may seem superficial at first but are known to cause lifelong hearing impairment.

How To Avoid It:

All construction site workers who handle equipment with loud noise and vibration should be equipped with proper hearing protection. Ensure that such machinery is well-maintained to reduce vibration.

11. Manual Handling and Ergonomics

Improper lifting techniques or repetitive movements can result in strains, sprains, or long-term musculoskeletal issues. No task at a construction site should be exhaustive or without breaks. Repetitive movements when happening without proper breaks can cause muscle sprains.

How To Avoid It:

Train workers in proper lifting techniques and provide ergonomic tools to reduce strain. Train them to use the right motion that reduces muscle fatigue.

12. Heat and Cold Stress

Extreme temperatures can lead to heatstroke, hypothermia, or frostbite. Depending on the season and conditions you are working in at the construction site, this can happen quite quickly.

How To Avoid It:

Provide breaks in shaded or heated areas. Ensure that every worker is hydrated properly. Encourage the use of appropriate clothing.

13. Biological Hazards

Exposure to bacteria, viruses, or animal droppings can result in infections or diseases. A small open wound can get infected very easily. Rust and other corroded metal piercing through the skin will cause a wound that may get infected with tetanus. Never take any open wound or cut lightly. Treat it immediately with proper medication and bandages.

How To Avoid It:

All construction site workers should wear the appropriate PPE at all times. Encourage hygiene practices and keep work areas clean. Have first-aid kits and personnel nearby to quickly treat a wound, cut, etc.

14. Collapses and Structural Failures

Improper planning, weak structures, or poor foundation work can lead to structural collapses. Scaffoldings that aren’t properly maintained may come loose and break apart. Foundations and structures that have not been load-tested may collapse when stretched beyond the required weight limit.

How To Avoid It:

Conduct thorough structural assessments and ensure all building materials meet safety standards. Ensure that only the required number of workers or the allowed weight is on the structure at any given point in time.

15. Communication and Coordination Issues

Poor communication between workers, supervisors, and contractors can lead to misunderstandings and accidents. Always have clear and precise instructions for every task being carried out at the construction site.

How To Avoid It:

Establish clear communication channels, use two-way radios when necessary, and hold regular safety briefings.

Construction site accident

How Construction Site Lawyers Can Help After an Accident

If you’re injured on a construction site, hiring a construction site accident lawyer will help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve. Construction accidents can involve complex regulations, and an experienced lawyer will understand the nuances of these cases. They will always prioritise your comfort and rights to get you the rightful compensation.

Reliable construction site accident lawyers can help by:

  • Investigating the construction site accident to determine liability
  • Gathering evidence such as witness statements and medical records
  • Negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation
  • Advising you on whether a settlement offer is in your best interest
  • Representing you in every legal interaction

5 Benefits of Hiring a Construction Site Accident Lawyer

Here are the main benefits you can get by hiring a construction site accident lawyer for your compensation claim:

  • Expertise in Construction Law
    Construction site accident lawyers specialise in the unique laws and regulations that govern the construction industry, ensuring all legal bases are covered.
  • Accurate Valuation of Your Claim
    A construction accident lawyer will calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical costs, lost wages, and future loss of earning potential, ensuring you are fully compensated.
  • Efficient Handling of Paperwork
    Any kind of legal case involves extensive paperwork which is usually tedious and full of technical jargon, and a Bonnar Accident Law lawyer will handle that on your behalf and ensure all documents are correctly filed.
  • Strong Negotiation Skills
    Insurance companies often try to minimise payouts but a dedicated and experienced lawyer uses their negotiation skills to help you secure a fair settlement, one that you deserve.
  • Peace of Mind
    When a solicitor takes up your construction accident compensation claim, they ensure you can focus on the recovery rather than worrying about how to go about the case, hence, you get peace of mind during your recovery phase.

Hire Construction Accident Lawyers from Bonnar Accident Law

Implementing the right construction safety should be the top priority. You can create a safer work environment by identifying the hazards preemptively, then setting clear objectives, and ensuring everyone is trained, protected, and safe.

If an accident happens at your construction site, contact a construction site accident lawyer at Bonnar Accident Law. We will assess your case, handle the paperwork, and get you the compensation claim you deserve; all at no-win-no-fee!

Road Safety

Road Safety: How to Make Sure You Are Safe

September 10, 2024/in , /by

Road safety is everyone’s responsibility, whether you’re behind the wheel of a car or navigating the roads on a bike. In Scotland and across the UK, road users of all ages must remain vigilant and ensure they always have a safe journey.

Here at Bonnar Accident Law, we’d like to provide you with some tips and guides on how to steer clear of accidents on the road. However in the unfortunate event you do get in an accident, we’ll ensure you get the road traffic accident compensation you deserve.

Here are 10 essential tips for making sure you are safe and secure on the road:

1. Always Carry Emergency Items

Better safe than sorry when it comes to being prepared for unexpected situations. No matter if you’re on a car or a bike, you should always carry a set of emergency items.

These will make a huge difference in case you do ever get into a road accident. Such a small and sometimes ignored detail such as carrying an emergency kit can sometimes be the difference between life and death.

If you’re a car driver, consider packing the following in your car:

  • A first-aid kit
  • Reflective warning triangles
  • A high-visibility vest
  • A spare tyre and jack
  • A torch (flashlight) with extra batteries
  • A phone charger or power bank
  • A blanket and bottled water, especially during the colder months
  • A few snacks that have a long shelf life, in case you get snowed in

For bike riders, the essentials you can pack for the road may include:

  • A first-aid kit
  • Puncture repair tools and a pump
  • High-visibility clothing
  • A compact torch or bike lights
  • A phone holder and charger
  • A multi-tool for quick repairs
  • A few protein or energy bars

This safety and emergency kit will help you be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances; a breakdown, a flat tyre, an injury, a road accident, etc.

2. Check Shocks, Brakes, and Tyres

Before you get on the road, always have a checklist that you go through for your vehicle’s condition. If you do it enough times, it will eventually become a habit.

For car owners, this checklist should include inspecting the shocks for any leaks or damage and ensuring brakes are responsive. Drivers should also examine the tyres to ensure proper inflation and tread depth, they should also be checked to ensure there are no signs of wear and tear or any foraging objects such as nails sticking out.

If you are a biker, you should also ensure that you check the tyres for adequate pressure, as well as inspecting the brake pads for wear and tear, and checking the suspension system is in good shape.

Regular checks like this will significantly reduce the risk of mechanical failures that could lead to road accidents.

3. Understand and Use Signals Correctly

Proper signalling is crucial for safe driving and riding. It communicates your intent to other road users. It reduces the chances of misunderstandings and collisions.

Before you hit the road, check that all signals are working properly, be it on your car or your bike. Wipe off the dust and let the indicator light shine bright as a ray.

As a car driver, make sure your indicators and brake lights are working correctly. Use them well in advance before you manoeuvre your car in any direction.

Never assume other drivers, pedestrians, or road users will automatically assume what you are about to do. Signal your intention, well ahead of time, so other road users can be prepared for you and your vehicle.

Road safety 1

4. Stay Alert to New Sounds or Smells

Any vehicle usually gives early warning signs when something is about to break down or go wrong.

Be very attentive to any unusual sounds or smells coming from your car or bike. A grinding noise could indicate brake wear, while a burning smell usually means something is either burning or overheating. It could also mean an electrical fault.

If you notice any sound, sight, or smell that is usually not present, don’t ignore it! Get it checked immediately by a professional mechanic.

Also, any sudden bumps or issues in handling your car or bike may mean a tyre that is slowly deflating.

5. Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions

Staying focused on the road is vital. Distractions, such as mobile phones, can take your attention away from driving or riding, leading to potentially dangerous situations.

In the UK, using a mobile phone while driving is illegal and could result in a fine, points on your licence, or even a driving ban.

Keep your phone out of reach or use hands-free technology if it is necessary.

Remember, staying focused could save your life or someone else’s.

6. Replace Damaged Parts Promptly

Do not compromise your safety by delaying changing a damaged or broken part. No matter how insignificant it seems, always get the damaged part replaced immediately.

For cars, ensure that windshields, mirrors, indicators, and headlights are all in good working order.

For bikes, check the integrity of the bike stand, hand guards, mirrors, and lights.

Replace any damaged or broken part at the first stop to ensure your vehicle remains roadworthy and safe.

7. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

Always be aware of your surroundings, including other vehicles, pedestrians, and potential hazards.

Use your mirrors frequently, and check blind spots before changing lanes or turning. When driving in cities or towns, anticipate the actions of other road users, especially cyclists and pedestrians.

As a biker, watch out for vehicles making unexpected manoeuvres or opening doors.

8. Drive Safely at Night

Driving at night presents unique challenges, including reduced visibility and an increased risk of encountering tired or impaired drivers.

Use your headlights correctly, and dip them when another vehicle approaches to avoid dazzling them.

Make sure your lights are clean and in good working condition.

Reduce your speed to match the conditions, and stay vigilant for animals or pedestrians that may be harder to see.

9. What to Do If Your Car or Bike Breaks Down

If your car or bike breaks down, it’s important to stay calm and take immediate action to keep yourself safe.

Pull over to a safe location, such as a lay-by or the hard shoulder, and switch on your hazard lights.

If you’re on a motorway, exit the vehicle on the passenger side and move to a safe location behind a barrier.

Never attempt to repair your vehicle on the hard shoulder. Call for roadside assistance or emergency services and wait in a safe place.

10. What to Do If You Get Into an Accident

If you’re involved in an accident, stay calm and check yourself and others for injuries.

Call emergency services if anyone is hurt, and provide them with your location and details of the incident.

If it’s safe, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent further collisions.

Exchange details with the other driver, including names, contact information, and insurance details.

Take photos of the scene, damages, and any injuries for your records.

Road Safety Sign

How Car Accident Solicitors Can Help

If you’re involved in a road accident, getting in touch with a car accident solicitor can be extremely beneficial.

Here are the key reasons why you should:

No-Win-No-Fee Service

Car accident solicitors in the UK, such as Bonnar Accident Law, offer a no-win-no-fee service. You won’t have to pay any legal fees unless your claim is successful. This provides you with peace of mind and financial protection during an already stressful time.

Expert Advice and Guidance

A car accident solicitor will provide expert advice and guide you through the complex process of making a claim. They will ensure you understand your rights and are given the road traffic accident compensation you are entitled to.

Maximising Compensation

An experienced car accident solicitor lawyer can help you gather the necessary evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve for any injuries, losses, or damages incurred.

Conclusion

Remember, road safety starts with you.

Follow these tips to stay safe, and if the worst happens, know that a car accident solicitor at Bonnar Accident Law can help you navigate the road to recovery.

 

Driver Making Phone Call After Traffic Accident

How to Make a Road Traffic Accident Claim

March 28, 2024/in , , /by

Road traffic accidents can happen at any time, anywhere, to anyone. You can try to avoid them as much as possible, but sometimes it is simply not in your control to avoid them. In incidents such as these, you will have to follow a few steps to ensure that you and your loved ones are safe and then claim for the damages you have faced.

An accident claim lawyer such as us at Bonnar Accident Law will ensure that you get the compensation claim that you deserve. Assessing the situation, the road traffic accident, and how it affected you, the personal injury lawyer will do their utmost to ensure you are compensated appropriately.

How to claim compensation for a road traffic accident in Scotland

Keep in mind that a road traffic accident (RTA) can result in injuries as minor as relatively mild whiplash to life-threatening multiple fractures. These may also include critical-care spinal or head injuries, and at worst, may lead to an unfortunate fatality.

Our personal injury solicitors are equipped with the expertise and experience to accurately value every RTA claim. We manage every case to a successful conclusion, no matter how complex or difficult it may be.

A few simple steps to take immediately following a minor road traffic accident

Here are a few steps you should immediately take following a road traffic accident:

  • Check for injuries
    Check yourself and your passengers for any injuries. Don’t make sudden movements in case of a puncture wound or a fracture. Slowly get up into a comfortable position. If you or any other passenger is hurt, don’t hesitate to call for medical assistance. Even a fraction of time can make a life-changing difference when it comes to medical emergencies.
  • Move to a safe location
    If your car, bike or vehicle is drivable, pull over to the emergency lane if it is safe to do so. You should attempt to move your vehicle if it may cause a further potential road hazard. Ensure you have your hazard warning lights turned on to let traffic know that your vehicle has made an emergency stop.
  • Document the accident
    If you have your phone or tablet device handy, take photographs of the crash scene. This photographic evidence will help to support your compensation claim and will be useful for your insurance. The evidence should include photos of all involved vehicles taken from different angles. Be sure to photograph licence plates, visible damage, and the surrounding streets/areas of the incident.
  • Call the police
    Always call the police to the scene of a road traffic accident, no matter how minor it may seem. The police report will help the insurance companies determine which party will be responsible for the damages incurred. Also, a police record will keep every legal documentation in line for you.
  • Exchange information
    If there is another vehicle or driver involved, make sure you exchange your information with them. This should include contact details and insurance information.
  • Look for witnesses
    If the road traffic accident happened in the presence and line of sight of people nearby, do ask them to provide you with a statement, if they can. Ask the likes of shop owners, pedestrians, other vehicle owners and drivers. It’s good practice to ask them to stay on the scene to provide a statement to the police when they arrive.
  • Report the accident
    Always report the road traffic accident, no matter how minor, to the police as soon as possible. Reportable road traffic collisions have to be logged as soon as practicable or within 24 hours, in any case.

Hammer gavel judge with car vehicle accident, insurance coverage claim lawsuit court case.

How to make an RTA compensation claim if you are:

  • Car and other vehicle drivers

In a road traffic accident in which you were driving but where you were not at fault, you may be entitled to claim compensation from the other party’s insurance company.

Here are a few steps you should take if you have been injured:

  • Seek medical attention as soon as possible, and report to your GP following a hospital admission
  • Exchange insurance details
  • Take photos, only if it is safe and appropriate
  • Obtain the name and contact details of any witnesses
  • Inform the police

IMPORTANT NOTE: Do not accept an offer from the other driver’s insurance company. The acceptance of an initial offer immediately after an accident is a major mistake!

Seek independent legal advice from our accident claims lawyers.

  • Pedestrians

If you were an RTA victim as a pedestrian, you may also have a claim against the driver.

If you’re a senior citizen or have a minor, you may have a potential risk every time you step on a busy road. All it takes is a small lapse in judgement or attention on the driver’s part to ruin any pedestrian’s life forever.

It is not uncommon for pedestrians to get injured while crossing a road as cars or other vehicles may swerve or mount a pavement.

If you are a victim of this type of RTA, contact our personal injury solicitors in Scotland to help you win your claim compensation.

  • Car passengers

In case you are a passenger in a van, car, or any other vehicle, and you are in a road traffic accident, you may be entitled to claim against the driver. If that driver is an Uber or any other service, you may easily win a claim. And in case the driver is a relative, family or loved one, don’t hesitate to claim since it will be paid by the driver’s insurance company.

Remember, whiplash injuries may seem minor but these are painful and may cause long-term muscle or fibre damage. Get yourself examined by a medical practitioner after the RTA and then give our personal injury solicitors a call. We will advise you on the merits of your claim.

  • Bus or coach passengers

Being a passenger on a coach or a bus that faces a road traffic accident, you may be entitled to a compensation claim.

A simple injury may occur in the unfortunate event of a collision, an emergency stop, or even a minor or a proper accident.

You may be thrown around in the large vehicle which may result in common injuries such as brushes, whiplash, cuts, fractures, or even head injuries.

These compensation claims can also be made by tourists who travel on a sightseeing tour or holidaymakers. It may also be made by teachers or schoolchildren who go on trips.

  • Taxi passengers

Despite wearing your seatbelt in a taxi, an Uber, or a similar car-hailing service vehicle, you may suffer minor or serious injuries if the vehicle collides on the road. A hard-hitting emergency stop may also injure you.

In case you have suffered minor or serious injuries when inside a taxi or car-hailing service vehicle, you ask our personal injury solicitors in Scotland to help you make your claim.

  • Hit-and-run victims

As a victim or a hit-and-run driver, or if the vehicle was stolen or driven by an uninsured driver, you may be entitled to a personal injury claim.

May uninsured drivers flee the scene after an RTA to escape the consequences of their actions. Sometimes the vehicle in a hit-and-run is stolen. In any case, you have the legal right to make a claim.

Bonnar Accident Law can help you claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB).

  • Cyclists

In Scotland and the UK, cyclists are amongst the most vulnerable road users. Any slight inattentiveness or recklessness by a larger vehicle driver may result in an injury for you. Other reasons may include faulty equipment or poor road surface conditions.

As a cyclist, a minor accident may lead to minor injuries such as cuts and bruises to major injuries such as fractures, head or spinal trauma, etc. In extreme cases, the RTA may result in a fatality.

As a cyclist, you may be entitled to claim compensation if:

  • The accident was caused by another road user or vehicle driver
  • The road or cycle lane was in poor condition
  • The equipment you were using was faulty

Our personal injury solicitors at Bonnar Accident Law will investigate the claim free of charge and give you expert legal advice.

  • Motorcyclists

Even the most skilled motorcyclists, wearing the correct protective gear, may face injuries or even death, when they are involved in a road traffic accident.

Actions of other road users and hazardous road conditions are two of the main reasons behind motorcyclist RTAs. The sustained injuries may be minor, serious, life-altering, or even fatal.

In case you or your loved one has been in RTA as a motorcyclist, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

Bonnar Accident Law is a corporate member of Headway, The Brain Injury Association, and we know how to help people and families who have to deal with the aftermath of a serious injury.

Contact our personal injury solicitors in Scotland to make the right claim for compensation in a road traffic accident as a motorcyclist.

How to claim with an accident claim lawyer

There are various methods to seek compensation after a road traffic accident. In most cases, you can contact a traffic accident claim solicitor or personal injury solicitor. The initial consultation to discuss your case may be free of charge. But to clear ambiguity, always call the solicitor beforehand to confirm.

To claim compensation through a no-win-no-fee accident claim solicitor in Scotland, remember to take the following actions:

  • Contact a solicitor
    Contact a personal injury solicitor who offers a no-win-no-fee arrangement. This agreement will allow you to claim compensation without worrying about how to pay for it.
  • Provide the required information
    It is paramount that you provide your solicitor with all the information and evidence collected at the scene of the accident. Even if it is a minor detail that you want to overlook and not mention, mention it to the solicitor.
  • Follow the solicitor’s advice
    Once the solicitor is on your case, and it begins, make sure that you follow every advice your solicitor gives through the claim process. If they give you directions on your words and interactions, take the advice. It will benefit you by the end of the claim.

Remember, the actions you take in the hours and days after a collision can have a significant impact on the outcome of your claim. It’s important to keep detailed records of everything related to the accident, including photographs, medical history, prescriptions, and any other out-of-pocket expenses.

What would a traffic accident solicitor do for you?

When you talk to a traffic accident claim solicitor, they will listen to your account of the traffic accident. Remember to provide them with evidence, and recount the traffic accident in complete detail. Remember to recall every detail to help them highlight how your claim can increase based on the injuries incurred.

The road traffic accident solicitor will provide you with the necessary steps you need to take to take your case to court. Write them down and ask them to provide you with a checklist of documents and necessary evidence you will require in court.

Will your case be on a no-win-no-fee basis?

Most road traffic accident claim lawyers take the cases on a no-win-no-fee agreement. It means that if your claim isn’t successful, they will not charge you any solicitor fee. Ensure that you have got this point cleared out in the initial discussion with your solicitor.

In case your road traffic accident claim is won, the solicitor will charge you a percentage from your awarded claim. But don’t worry, there is a cap that keeps the percentage within an acceptable limit. Discuss clarity on the percentage in the initial discussion as well to avoid any unwanted surprises later on.

In case your road traffic accident claim solicitor asks for a fee, you may be able to apply for legal aid to help you with the expenses and fees incurred. In case of winning your road traffic accident claim, you may have to give a share of your awarded claim towards the legal fees and damages. You can find more information on the website of The Scottish Legal Board.

Contact Bonnar Accident Law for a no-win-no-fee road traffic accident claim

Bonnar Accident Law has been helping people in Scotland, who have been injured or affected in a road traffic accident and helping them claim their compensation since 1977.

Our solicitors are all members of APIL, the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers and the firm is a corporate partner of Headway UK, the Brain Injury Association.

If you have been injured in a road traffic accident and would like to discuss your options for making a compensation claim, please do not delay. Call us free now on 0800 163 978 or complete our free online claim enquiry and we will contact you by return.

Police Scotland's Festive Crackdown on Driving under the Influence: All You Need to Know

Police Scotland’s Festive Crackdown on Driving under the Influence: All You Need to Know

December 14, 2021/in , /by

The Minister for Transport and Police Scotland have launched this year’s festive enforcement campaign to tackle drink and drug-driving across Scotland, highlighting the personal and criminal consequences of being found guilty of driving under the influence.

More than 20,000 drivers are stopped by the police in Scotland every month and Police Scotland’s enforcement campaign will see an even stronger focus on drink driving on Scotland’s roads, so the chances of being caught are higher than ever.

The consequences of drink and drug-driving can be devastating and put not only the driver but any other passengers, and road users at risk of serious injury or worse. With more people out and about and enjoying Christmas parties this year, in comparison to the Covid-19 restrictions that consumed the festive season in 2020, Police Scotland’s message is clear: if you’re planning to have a drink, even just the one, leave the car at home.

Police Scotland confirmed that 395 motorists having tested positive for drug-driving, and 600 arrested for drink-driving and related offences throughout Scotland in the last two months alone. Unfortunately, it is the reality that some people do still take the risk.

Here at Bonnar Accident Law, we understand that behind each statistic, there is potentially a family dealing with a devastating aftermath. We have significant experience handling road traffic accidents, and we are here to help every step of the way. If you’d like more information get in touch today, or keep reading to find out all you need to know on drink and drug-driving.

What are the current drink and drug-driving limits in Scotland?

The current drink drive limit is:

  • 22 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath
  • 50 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood
  • 67 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of urine

The drink and drug-drive limit in Scotland is stricter than in England, so just one small drink could put you over. The reason it’s measured as a percentage of alcohol in your breath, blood or urine rather than per units of alcohol, is because everybody processes alcohol in different ways, and the same drink can create different levels of alcohol for different people. This can be influenced by factors such as your weight, age, metabolism, medication or your stress levels.

Although it’s clear that you cannot safely drink any alcohol when driving, the reason the limit isn’t zero is because there’s more than one reason why drivers could have alcohol in their body other than from drinking. For example, certain foods, mouthwash and medications can contain alcohol.

Regarding the drug-driving limit, Scotland has a zero-tolerance approach to tackling illegal drugs and driving. No matter what kind of drugs someone may have taken, or how much, it is a crime to take illegal drugs and drive.

The police can stop you if they suspect you of drink or drug-driving, and if you are found to be over the drink drive limit or to have used illegal drugs, this is treated very seriously. The consequences are severe, ranging from receiving a criminal record, a minimum 12 month driving ban, the possibility of losing your job and receiving a substantial fine. Repeat offenders, or those that cause death due to careless driving, may even face the prospect of a prison sentence and a much longer driving ban.

Can an injured passenger claim against a drunk driver?

As always, the most important element of any claim for compensation is proving that someone else’s negligence caused you to be injured, through no fault of your own. In terms of typical passenger compensation claims, if you can prove that the driver caused the accident, the grounds for your claim would rest on the fact that you were owed a duty of care that you did not receive.

If a driver fails to show due care for their passengers’ safety, and their reckless or negligent driving results in serious injury, the passenger then has the right to claim for any damages which were a direct result of their injuries or loss.

For drink and drug-driving cases, this can be a little more complicated. You could still claim against a drunk driver if you were injured as a passenger in their vehicle that was involved in a car accident. Even if you yourself were drunk. Regardless of whether a passenger is drunk or not, a driver who causes an accident will invariably carry the lion’s share of responsibility for the accident.

However, when a passenger decides to be driven by a driver they knew, or ought to have known was drunk, that passenger may be liable for contributory negligence. Contributory negligence means that any compensation you are awarded would be reduced, owing to the fact that your choice to enter a vehicle with a drunk driver contributed to the injuries you sustained.

What do I do if I’m involved in a road traffic accident caused by drink or drug-driving?

We completely understand how distressing it is to be involved in a road traffic accident, especially if you are injured by someone drink or drug-driving. Just try your best to stay calm and remember as many details as you can, as these can help to support your claim if you weren’t at fault. Try to record the following:

  • Names, addresses and contact details of all drivers involved
  • Vehicle registration details for all vehicles involved
  • Accident date and time
  • Accident location
  • Full contact details of any witnesses

Most importantly of course, if necessary, seek medical attention as soon as possible and report to your GP following any hospital admissions. And remember to always report the accident to the police.

If you have been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault and you would like more information, please get in touch with one of our No Win No Fee solicitors today.