There is a telltale sign that could save you from a serious road accident caused by the high winds currently lashing the UK.
This week Storms Dudley and Eunice have wreaked havoc across the UK – ripping down power lines and causing huge transport disruptions, with Storm Franklin now named by the Met Office for Monday.
People were advised to stay indoors as large trees were at serious risk of being uprooted, causing damage to property and blocking major routes.
But motoring experts have revealed the sign that can give those who do have to venture out onto the roads a major clue that the path ahead could be blocked by some dangerous felled timber – lots of twigs and leaves in the road.
Duncan McClure Fisher, founder and CEO of the UK’s fastest-growing motoring association MotorEasy, said: “Storms pose a real threat to life for many reasons, but one of the main ones is felled trees blocking roads.
“This is especially true in rural areas where suddenly encountering a fallen tree around a sharp corner on a country lane could lead to a serious accident and pose a major risk to life.
“But there is something to watch out for that can act as a vital early warning system for any trouble ahead.
“And that is seeing lots of twigs and leaves on the road as this could be an indication that the wind has caused significant damage to trees and other foliage in the area.
“Having your wits about you when driving in adverse weather conditions is crucial and little clues such as this can make all the difference when it comes to staying safe.”
Storm Dudley signalled the start of days of devastation.
On Wednesday a large tree fell on a car with three men inside at Birmingham University, while another man in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, was lucky to escape when his vehicle was also crushed by falling timber.
In another incident, a train in Cardiff, South Wales, was struck by a trampoline that had been blown out of a nearby garden.
MotorEasy’s Mr McClure Fisher added: “Of course, the best thing to do if there are severe weather conditions is stay at home. But we know this is not always possible so if you do have to venture out tips such as this could prove invaluable.
“Other measures you can take include giving yourself more space from the cars around you in case a sudden gusts shifts you into another lane, and also being mindful of gaps between buildings that could act as wind tunnels and suddenly buffet you as you pass by.
“And, of course, keeping both hands on the wheel and staying alert are always good tips for driving safely whatever the conditions.”
