26 November 2014
5 Mins read

GEM: Motorists should ensure they’re visible at all times

GEM Motoring Assist wants drivers to stay as visible as possible, especially as daylight hours reduce.

GEM Motoring Assist is encouraging the UK's motorists to make sure they stay as visible as possible when on the road.

The road safety and breakdown organisation's advice comes amid concerns that many drivers may be making themselves harder to spot when daytime visibility is limited without realising it, as they could be relying on automatic lighting systems.

By putting their complete trust into this technology, visibility ahead could be reduced and there could be no rear lights showing at all.

David Williams MBE, chief executive of GEM, explained: "More and more cars now have automatic lighting arrangements. These, combined with front-only daytime running lights, mean it's easy to assume your lights are all taken care of without your needing to do anything.

"However, daytime running lights alone are not sufficient to make you properly visible to oncoming traffic and other road users, especially in foggy or wet conditions. What's more, you may be displaying no rear lighting whatsoever."

The organisation has advised motorists to use their experience and common sense, rather than solely relying on automatic sensors, to judge what lights need to be used when on the road.

GEM recommend using dipped headlights at all times, if visibility is reduced during the day. By switching them on manually, motorists will ensure their rear lights are also illuminated, making the vehicle more conspicuous to drivers in front and behind.

Drivers also need to carry out regular checks on a vehicle's main beams, indicators, sidelights, fog and brake lights, to make sure that everything is in working order. Furthermore, a car owner should make themselves familiar with the location of fog lights, so they can be used when needed.

In addition, the organisation advises that motorists learn as much as possible about their car's automatic lighting system so they can check that it works properly, but GEM also warns that it should not be relied on to keep the vehicle visible at all times, in all conditions.

Lights should be used in a way that provides the maximum benefits to all those on the road, and motorists should be on the lookout for other drivers that aren't using their lights effectively.

Mr Williams concluded that reduced visibility means an accident is more likely, making it important that drivers take "proactive control" of their lights to improve safety and reduce the risk of danger on winter journeys.

Posted by Emma Grange