Stress and fatigue both have an adverse effect on driver concentration levels. As concentration levels drop, the risk of a crash increases. It then follows that by managing stress and fatigue, you can reduce the risk of crashing.

■ Take your time – Rushing is a recipe for disaster. Not only does this make the journey more stressful, it means you’re more likely to be taking risks. Always allow yourself plenty of time for a journey.

■ Switch off – Turning your mobile off gives you one less thing to think about. As we mentioned earlier in this newsletter, mobiles are distracting and driving plus distraction equals trouble.

■ Take regular breaks – Concentrating for long periods is tiring. Every hour or so, pull over to a safe place and have a five minute break. This will give you a chance to have some refreshment and check your messages.

■ On longer journeys stop every two hours for 15 minutes. If you start to feel sleepy, stop and drink two cups of coffee or a high caffeine drink and have a rest for 10-15 minutes to allow time for the caffeine to kick in.

■ Keep your distance – As a rule you should be at least two seconds behind the car in front. Not only will this give you time to react in an emergency, you’ll find it a lot less stressful than being sat on the other vehicle’s bumper.

Each season presents its own challenges for all road users, especially business drivers who spend a greater proportion of the day and night behind the wheel.

Many hazards are of course affected by our approach to driving. Of all the seasons winter poses the most taxing conditions. Rain, sleet, fog, snow, ice, frost and even a low lying sun on a clear blue day can all make driving difficult. Any lapse of concentration or distraction during a journey in these conditions can be disastrous.

Before winter sets in it is always a good idea to prepare your vehicle so that it is driving at its optimum.

• Cold weather affects your battery life, if it is showing signs of deterioration have it checked.
• If your windscreen has any chips the combination of cold weather and a warm environment inside the car leads to expansion and can make a small chip a major crack. Many insurance companies offer a free repair service that does not impact on your policy.
• Check the water level in your windscreen washer tank. Roads are often sprayed with salt during cold snaps and nothing uses the water quicker that constantly cleaning the windscreen. Make sure you add a windscreen wash to prevent the water freezing.
• Check your wiper blades are in good condition. A poorly working wiper blade can make visibility worse.
• Make sure your tyres are in good condition and have plenty of tread.
• Poorly maintained brakes do not need extreme conditions to show their failings. The evidence is often acknowledged too late.
• Prepare for bad weather. Always carry a first aid kit, a blanket, a snow shovel and make sure you plan any long journey in advance.