Tips on Driving on Snow and Ice

Its that time of year again, with this winter predicted (yet again) to be the coldest in 100 years we look at how to keep it together on Britain’s icy roads.

The fact is winter driving is not as hard as people portray it, but just takes a little more care, concentration and awareness. So if you have to take to the roads despite the splendid weather advice, here are some tips to keep you safe. Before you take the wheel to combat inclement weather conditions, it is important to ensure your vehicle is in good order to stand the test.

Preparing your Vehicle:

  1. Regular Maintenance – This goes without saying and regardless of the weather conditions, it is important to keep your vehicle updated by following your manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. Winterizing your vehicle includes checking several aspects of your vehicle including car battery, coolant, tyres, screen wash and wiper blades among others. Statistics indicate that most call-outs during the winter season is due to battery related issues so this might be a good time to ensure it is in excellent working condition.
  2. Free your Vehicle of Ice and Snow – Before you set out in icy and snowy weather, make sure you clear all the ice from the vehicle including the roof, trunk, hood, signals, windows, side view mirrors and signals. The key is to see and to be seen clearly so keep that in mind when removing the snow. It may seem like a daunting task, but its a good idea to simultaneously check the lights, fluids, wiper blades, tires, belts and hoses. Cold temperatures tend to lower tire pressure so ensure they are appropriately inflated.
  3. Keep your Petrol tank at least half full – Motorists should keep their petrol tank at least half full to avoid moisture from accumulating, clogging and freezing the fuel lines. Following this practice is a good habit every day of the year and will save you from a whole lot of trouble and inconvenience in the long term.

With your vehicle all geared up for snowy and icy conditions, here are a few basic rules for safety on the road.

Whenever you drive, it is important to adjust to current road conditions and the case of slippery roads, it means slowing down. Leave home earlier than you would in the summer and plan your trip whether short or long. As mentioned before, keep your windows free of snow and this also applies to inside of your vehicle. Switching on your air conditioner in the winter will help eliminate moisture from the interior and also improve defroster performance.

Avoid tailgating, but rather give the car ahead enough room to breathe and maybe a bit extra. Keep in mind that braking on a slippery surface requires more distance from the car ahead, and recommended space is 3-4 seconds at the least, and should be increased if weather conditions are extreme. Although it is common practice to power up the hills, doing so just makes your wheels spin in the same place, but using lower gears will help you maintain traction. Cut the guesswork and avoid anticipating turns, changes and curves and rather make smooth, slow and careful movements. The last thing you want is to have to make a claim on you car insurance or traders insurance if you are taking someone out for a test drive.

Finally but most important, get acquainted with your braking system. Locked wheels tend to make the car skid or slide. Antilock brakes are standard equipment with newer model vehicles and if your vehicle fits the bill, push the pedal firmly and keep it pressed, but do not remove your foot or pump the pedal.

There’s no getting around winter, and instead of dreading it, make the necessary changes and implement best driving practices to stay safe.

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