Optimal route planning is really important now

In the weeks before Christmas, several factors make road traffic difficult. Due to the winter weather, visibility and road conditions deteriorate significantly, leading to a slowdown in traffic: the average speed of vehicles decreases by about 6 percent during this period.

While the roadworthiness deteriorates by almost 10 percent after rain, in the case of snow it is already 20 percent, and after tinny rain it is about 60 percent.

Increased braking distances and deterioration of visibility must also be taken into account, which requires increased attention on the part of drivers, as even a minor fault on a slippery road can lead to an accident. While before the holidays, it is mainly truck traffic that overwhelms the routes, during the holidays it is typically retail vans and cars.

As most people leave the big Christmas shopping for December, the number of cars on the roads will skyrocket just before the holidays. On Advent weekends, larger cities are almost congested, and it is usually impossible to find a parking space around shopping malls and major hubs. Stumbling accidents are more common at this time, causing congestion and making traffic more difficult.

It is important to always keep the right following distance to drive safely and accident-free even in winter road conditions. Be sure to switch to winter tires before using the frosts, or use a snow chain if necessary on difficult roads. Due to the early darkness, the light conditions also deteriorate, so it is advisable to always drive with a lighted vehicle. Pay close attention to each other and especially to pedestrians.