Drivers urged not to turn their cars into Christmas death traps

Date published: 21 December 2018


Motorists who play Santa by cramming their cars with presents are being warned they could be driving a Christmas death trap.

Millions of Brits will be hitting the roads for extended trips over the busy Christmas period, travelling an average 302 miles. 

But vehicles overloaded with gifts, luggage, pets and family members present a unique festive danger. 

And experts are urging motorists to limit ‘loose’ items piled high in cars - objects that could become lethal missiles in the event of an accident. 

Mark Tongue, director of UK-leading vehicle leasing firm Select Car Leasing, warned: “Motorists do a lot of driving over the festive period - more than 300 miles per person, according to estimates. 

“And many of those journeys will see cars absolutely crammed to the gills with presents and luggage, with problems exacerbated if you’ve got children or pets. 

“When the car's boot is full, it’s temping to just load every available nook and cranny with items, from the back seat to parcel shelves. 

“But if these objects aren’t secure, then they’re potentially lethal in an accident, or even if you’re simply forced into a situation that calls for harsh braking. 

“Even lightweight items can hit speeds of 65mph in a crash, causing serious impact injuries to any unlucky passenger or driver in the firing line. 

“And clearly the risks are increased for things like hard suitcases. 

“I’d urge drivers to be wary of the dangers and if needs be, use bungee cords - or even gaffer tape - to strap loose items down.”

Driving with a dangerously overloaded car - exceeding the weight limits dictated by the manufacturer and therefore invalidating your insurance - could also land you with a £300 fine and three points on your licence. 

Research last year by the Accident Advice Helpline, found that families typically travel 302 miles over Christmas, spending around nine hours in the car. 

More than half - 54-per-cent - admitted Christmas driving was ‘stressful’, with a fifth worrying about the family’s safety on the road. 

A further 43 per cent get said they get ‘anxious' when stuck in holiday traffic while a quarter - 23-per-cent - admitted having to pack and unpack the car is a constant ‘chore’. 

And - shockingly - 13-per-cent had witnessed a festive accident during the annual winter getaway. 


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