Research reveals half of Irish drivers lack confidence in winter conditions

A recent poll conducted by ‘Ireland Thinks’ and commissioned by RedClick has revealed that underlying anxiety remains among the Irish public regarding winter hazards, despite high rates of reported precautionary behaviour.

The survey of 1,176 adults shows that 51 per cent of Irish drivers are either not confident (38 per cent) or actively avoid using roads (13 per cent) when faced with icy or snowy conditions.

This widespread unease is compounded by wider fears about specific on-road dangers, with black ice patches (32 per cent) topping the list of worries, closely followed by concerns over other drivers’ behaviour (26 per cent) and general icy roads (25 per cent).

These findings suggest that although Irish motorists are highly conscious of the risks posed by winter, a significant portion of the population is ill-at-ease behind the wheel during adverse weather.

The reality of driving risk and precaution
Despite the lack of confidence, the data shows that 78 per cent of drivers have previously delayed or cancelled a car journey due to bad winter weather, demonstrating a significant degree of self-regulation and caution.

This preventative behaviour likely contributes to the finding that 65 per cent of respondents have never had a breakdown or accident caused directly by winter weather. However, a quarter of all drivers (25 per cent) report having been involved in a winter-related incident, with 19 per cent experiencing it once and a further six per cent experiencing it multiple times.

When it comes to specific driving precautions, the public adheres strongly to the most basic safety measures:

• 65 per cent consistently drive slowly and leave extra distance.
• 60 per cent report they clear snow/ice fully from windows and lights before driving.
• 40 per cent plan routes to avoid untreated or risky roads.

However, there are notable gaps when it comes to drivers taking pre-emptive or preventative measures. Only one in three drivers (33 per cent) say they check their tyres, battery, or fluids before setting off, while just 30 per cent regularly carry basic winter essentials such as a blanket, torch, scraper, or de-icer.

Lorenzo Ioan, RedClick’s general manager, commented: “The fact that over half of Irish drivers feel anxious or avoid driving altogether in icy or snowy conditions shows that winter driving fears are both real and justified, but the gap between awareness and preparation is concerning.

“Winter driving in Ireland requires more than caution, it also demands preparation. We’re urging drivers to take a few small steps now to stay safe and confident throughout the season, and to be fully prepared should any accidents happen.”

To help Irish motorists feel more confident in their vehicles this winter, RedClick offers six simple tips to follow:

Prepare your vehicle: Service your car and check key components like tyres, lights, fluids and wipers to ensure everything is winter ready.
Pack an emergency kit: Keep essentials such as a high-vis vest, shovel, torch, first aid kit, blanket, and de-icer in your boot.
Drive carefully in rain: Slow down, increase stopping distance, and avoid driving through floodwater of uncertain depth.
Handle fog safely: Use dipped headlights and fog lights, maintain distance, and avoid overtaking; pull over if visibility becomes too poor.
Take care in snow: Accelerate and brake gently, use higher gears, and clear all snow and ice from your car before driving.
Review your insurance: Make sure your car insurance provides the right level of cover and includes helpful add-ons like breakdown assistance.