SADLY, a spate of road traffic collisions are usually reported at this time of the year as it gets dark much earlier due to the clocks going back.

And yesterday was no exception as a number of accidents were caused throughout the county.

But, this time it seems that mud was the contributory factor.

The police have issued a warning saying that they will not hesitate in taking legal action against farmers if they are seen to be irresponsibly dropping mud onto roads.

I'm not here to issue blame to anyone, but it's a known fact that thick mud on roads does lead to treacherous road conditions.

Of course, it's the motorists' responsibility to drive to the conditions, as they would if it was rainy, snowing or foggy, but mud can even catch out the best drivers, especially if they cannot see it on dark, rural roads.

It is never nice to hear about accidents, especially if young people are involved.

A car, carrying a mother and her children, overturned in Clehonger yesterday.

Thankfully, none of the occupants were injured, but that's not to say that they didn't sustain any mental scars, especially the children.

There are more vehicles on roads than ever before and you always have to keep your wits about you, especially if you're not familiar with a particular road.

You may be casually driving down a country lane, before suddenly you're met with a lorry or a tractor coming round a bend.

Winter will soon be upon us and we have already witnessed a few cold, wet nights.

Before long, temperatures will drop below freezing.

I urge you all to stay safe on the roads and not only look after yourself and your loved ones, but also other road users.

As no one wants to become a statistic.

• What do you think about the current situation on the roads?

Let me know your thoughts by commenting below, email me at paul.rogers@herefordtimes.com, tweet me @podge1983 or you can leave me a comment on my personal blog Facebook page. Click the link here. Don't forgot to like the page as well.