Advice on avoiding a ‘pain in the neck’ crash

MOTORING experts are encouraging stiffnecked commuters who are returning workplaces after the Covid pandemic to carry out a simple “over the shoulder” check to avoid serious injuries.

Millions of Brits are set to face the daily commute after being forced to work from home for the past 18 months.

And because many have not had suitable desks and chairs in their homes, they have put their backs and necks under increased strain as they tap away at a laptop perched on a coffee table or cradle a phone under their chin.

Research carried by leading painkiller brand Nurofen found that more than a third of Brits reported an increase in backache since the start of lockdown in March 2020 and a further 26 per cent cited extra neck pain.

But leading motoring association MotorEasy has urged them to overcome any stiffness and carry out a vital “shoulder check” when they are back behind the wheel on a regular basis.

Its experts warn this can stop them from missing any vehicles loitering in the blind spots not covered by rear view or wing mirrors.

Department of Transport figures revealed that a “driver/ rider failing to look properly” was a contributing factor to 37 per cent of reported accidents on British roads in 2019.

MotorEasy chief Duncan McClure Fisher said: “Some people will be facing longer car journeys for the first time in well over a year, and with that will come raised anxiety levels and a loss in confidence.

“But while getting back behind the wheel might feel strange, there is one simple thing you can do to help prevent collisions and other serious problems – look over your shoulder when you are changing lanes and merging with traffic.

“For those who have picked up some aches and pains after being cooped up in a spare bedroom for the past 18 months, this may be slightly uncomfortable.

“But there is no substitute for a good shoulder check to ensure there is nothing in your blind spots before making a manoeuvre. It’s well worth trying to stay out of other people’s blind spots, too.”