Can you believe that winter is almost upon us? It seems like only a few days ago we were all enjoying the sunshine and those seemingly endless summer days, now we’re pulling our jackets around us and trying to keep warm with plenty of layers. Just like your wardrobe changes, your driving habits also need a little refresh. Driving in the winter is a completely different experience to driving in the dry summer heat.
With unpredictable hazards on the roads, the severe weather, other drivers and extreme conditions to consider, it’s important that you prepare yourself as much as possible. The last thing you want is to fall victim to a road traffic collision – if you’re looking for legal representation, check out friedmansimon.com – so, read on for 4 ways to stay safe on the road this winter.
Give yourself more time
Rushing to get yourself to work on time and the kids to school in bad driving conditions is an accident waiting to happen. Always give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination, taking things like the weather, traffic and de-icing your car into consideration. When you’re against the clock it’s tempting not to remove the ice and snow from your windows properly. This will have a huge impact on your visibility and make driving inherently dangerous, giving yourself more time to reach your destination and prepare properly will ensure you get there in one piece.
Check your fuel levels
Keeping an eye on your fuel levels is part of being responsible driver, however during the winter months you need to be extra vigilant. You might be moving in slow traffic for a number of miles, or at a stop completely due to a car accident or poor weather. Keeping your fuel levels high will ensure that you can reach your destination no matter how long it takes you to get there.
Give everyone enough space
The car in front might be being overly cautious (in your opinion) however, if they’re driving to the conditions then you should give them plenty of room to manoeuvre. They may brake suddenly or begin to skid on black ice. Don’t forget that in icy, snowy conditions your own braking distance will have increased, so if you need to brake suddenly you won’t want to hit the car in front of you.
Pack a winter survival kit
You might think that it won’t happen to you, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be prepared. You might brake down, become stuck in the snow, or unable to move due to traffic coming to a complete stop. You could be stuck for hours! Ensure you have a winter survival kit available to you, always drive in sturdy shoes, and have a coat with you. A first aid kit in your car may come in handy, as will blankets, bottled water, a fully charged phone, torch, snacks, a shovel, de-icer/scraper and an emergency breakdown contact. Ensuring you’re equipped will ensure you’re prepared for every eventuality.
