As the winter season sets in, navigating the roads becomes a more intricate task with the cold temperatures, snow, and ice presenting potential challenges. Breakdowns and accidents become more prevalent, making it imperative to adopt a proactive approach to ensure safety. In this guide, we’ll provide you with essential tips and considerations to help you navigate winter conditions and avoid breakdowns.
Driving Safely in Snow and Ice:
Winter roads demand a cautious approach. To ensure a safe journey, remember to drive slowly, as stopping distances can be significantly longer in snowy or icy conditions. Gentle manoeuvres and reduced speeds are key to safe winter driving. Additionally, consider your health; avoid driving with a cold or while taking medication that may induce drowsiness, as it could affect your reaction times. Other considerations include allowing extra time for winter journeys, planning routes along major roads that are more likely to be cleared and gritted, de-icing your car before setting off, and wearing comfortable, dry shoes for better pedal control.
Driving Techniques for Winter Conditions:
Adopt specific driving techniques to navigate winter conditions safely. Pull away in second gear to avoid wheel-spin, apply brakes gently to prevent skidding, and maintain a constant speed when driving uphill to avoid changing gears on the hill. For downhill driving, slow down before the descent, use a low gear, and minimise braking.
Dealing with Snow or Ice Stuck Situations:
If you find yourself stuck in snow or ice, follow these steps. Straighten the steering and clear snow from the wheels. Use a sack or rug in front of the driving wheels for additional grip, and ensure all windows are completely cleared of ice, snow, and condensation before driving.
Visibility Maintenance:
With shorter days and potential adverse weather, visibility becomes crucial. Keep these tips in mind. Ensure all lights are working and clean, clean lights after each trip in muddy conditions, keep number plates clean to avoid fines, and use headlights in reduced visibility, switching off fog lights when conditions improve.
Consider Winter Tires:
Think about investing in winter or all-season tyres for improved grip in cold, wet conditions. Ensure tyres have at least 3mm of tread.
Vehicle Electrics and Battery Care:
Cold weather can strain your vehicle’s battery. Follow these tips to prevent a flat battery. Turn off electrical loads before starting the engine, use the starter in short bursts, and if not used frequently, consider a regular overnight trickle charge.
Antifreeze Maintenance:
Maintain your antifreeze levels for engine protection down to -34°C. Check your service schedule for the correct type of antifreeze.
Troubleshooting:
Be aware of potential issues, such as a frozen water pump or an overheated radiator, and take appropriate actions.
Winter Driving Essentials:
Keep these essentials in your car during winter. Ice scraper and de-icer, torch and spare batteries, first aid kit, and a fully charged mobile phone and power bank.
Winter Car Survival Kit:
Prepare for unexpected situations with a winter emergency kit, including warm clothes, waterproofs, high-vis jackets, sturdy footwear, hot drinks, snacks, a shovel, jump leads, and warning triangles.
By following these winter driving safety tips and preparing for potential emergencies, you can minimise the risks associated with challenging winter conditions and ensure a safe and stress-free journey. Stay informed, stay prepared, and enjoy the winter season responsibly on the roads.