Summertime and the driving is easy – isn’t it?

As the weather finally begins to improve and we all start taking to the roads, rural insurer NFU Mutual is urging all drivers to be aware of the risk of accidents on UK roads and to adjust their behaviour to take account of different driving conditions.

Figures from the insurer show that although the weather may be better, there is no let up in claims during the summer months. In fact, surprisingly over the last few years there has been no significant difference between the amount of claims made during the summer and the winter.

Laura Wood at NFU Mutual commented: “You should always be as aware of your driving in the summer as you are in the winter. Although conditions may appear better, you should not be complacent as there are still very real risks when you take to the roads in the summer months.

“Rural roads in particular can pose a threat as people may be tempted to put their foot down when they see a clear country lane ahead. However, don’t assume it's safe to break the speed limit on rural roads just because there is less traffic. A recent Government campaign stated that you are three times more likely to die in a car crash on a rural road so due care must be taken.”

NFU Mutual has put together ten top tips for driving in the summer months:

Although it may be cooler driving in flip flops or bare feet, this can be risky as you do not get as much control over the foot pedals

Keep a clean pair of sunglasses with you but avoid lenses which darken in strong sunlight

If you know that you suffer from hayfever, take care when driving and only take medication that doesn't cause drowsiness

If you're towing a boat, caravan or trailer, pay attention to following distances and do not speed

If you take the scenic route, remember that on rural roads you may come across tractors or livestock. Tractors can stop or turn without warning so stay alert. It's also easy to get restless when slow-moving vehicles are holding you up, but impatience can lead to accidents

Take a supply of water with you on long journeys and never drink alcohol and then drive

Make sure your washer bottle is full – dead flies and dust on the windscreen can reduce visibility

Have plenty of entertainment in the car for little ones who could distract you

Avoid fatigue – make sure you stop and have a rest if you're feeling drowsy. Fresh air, a quick walk or turning up the radio may also help

Pack the car sensibly, don’t let anything block your rear view and try not to weigh the car down

Wood concludes: “Above all, you should always ensure that you have full insurance as accidents do happen, regardless of the preparations you may take. As a rural insurer, NFU Mutual primarily offers car insurance to people who live in the countryside.”