While the best winter driving advice is to stay home and avoid taking unnecessary risks, we understand that this is not always possible. If you must travel in severe weather it is important to be prepared. Follow these winter driving tips to ensure you stay as safe as possible during your journey.
Reduce your speed
Slow and steady is definitely key in winter weather conditions. Accelerating too quickly can lead to wheel spin and skidding due to low traction. It’s also important to remember that it takes longer to slow down on ice or snow, so make sure to leave a larger gap between you and the car in front to cover longer reaction times.
Remember your lights
Adverse winter weather conditions can affect roads at any time of day. Gloomy weather can cause poor visibility even during the daytime so remember to use your lights as and when you need them. Front and rear fog lights should be used in dense fog, but always turned off when visibility improves.
Clean your vehicle inside and out
Salt can wreak havoc with the paintwork of a vehicle so it’s important to keep your car clean and dry during the winter season. Cold temperatures and water from rain and snow can also damage the interior of your car. It’s a good idea to keep leather upholstery clean and protected, while mats will help to keep the floor clean.
Plan your trip
Planning ahead is essential during the winter season. It takes time to de-ice your vehicle and depending on road conditions you may have to drive at a much slower speed. It’s advised to check traffic updates and roadworks before you set off so that you can plan the best and safest route to travel.
Keep a breakdown survival kit in your car
It’s always wise to keep an emergency kit in the car, but especially important in winter. See our Winter Maintenance post for a guide on what to carry during those cold and unpredictable journeys.
