An employee suffered minor injuries as a direct result of a road traffic accident during freezing weather conditions whilst driving for work.

The employee was driving a company vehicle when they collided into the rear of another vehicle.

Vehicle checks had been carried out before departure and screenwash had been topped up. Winter weather conditions were below freezing, and it was a clear bright sunny day. The employee’s visibility was impeded as the windscreen wipers failed to clear the windscreen sufficiently as the window washer pump was frozen.

As a result of the injuries sustained, the employee was unable to come to work therefore also suffered from a loss of earnings.

KEY FINDINGS

The investigation into this accident highlighted the following failings:

• Although the screenwash was topped up, the screenwash jet nozzles were not tested to ensure they were working prior to departure
• The employee knowingly drove the vehicle for up to 3 hours with impeded visibility with the window washer pump frozen
• It is illegal to drive any vehicle if visibility is impeded.

This accident could have been prevented by taking a few extra precautions:

·       Ensure that your screenwash is appropriate for the weather conditions

·       Never drive any vehicle with impaired visibility

·       All defects are reported, recorded, and repaired in a timely manner

·       Safety MUST always be the number one priority

Please review the advice provided by the AA on coping with cold,snow and ice  https://www.theaa.com/driving-advice/seasonal/winter