Shropshire Collision Investigator Urges Motorists To Keep Windscreens Clean

A Shropshire based police collision investigator is urging motorists to make sure their windscreens are kept clean - inside and out.

Police Constable Nik (correct) Stafford, a member of West Mercia's Force Operations Specialist Support unit in Shrewsbury, says road accidents can be caused by obscured vision.

He said: "Everyone should take care to ensure their windscreens are clean and free from grime, both on the inside and out.

"With autumn closing in, the sun is usually quite low both in the mornings and the evenings, thereby increasing the chance of glare.  This occurs where the sun hits the windscreen at an angle and makes it extremely difficult to see through clearly.

"This can then mask any pedestrians, cyclists or objects in the carriageway where they could be seen under normal conditions.

"The inside of the screen needs to be cleaned with a good cleaner.  Also advised is an additive for the screen wash to aid in clearing the outside of the windscreen when the vehicle's washers are applied."

PC Stafford added that people should take time to wipe dew or condensation from side windows and rear windscreens before setting off on journeys, especially where cars have been standing outside overnight.

Issued: Friday, 07 September 2012