6 Essential Tips for Winter Driving
In winter, it’s crucial to prioritise your safety while driving on snowy and icy roads. Accidents in the winter increase by 15% compared to summer.[1]
The darker nights and the weather are the main challenges, with snow, fog, sun glare, frost and black ice making driving safely that much harder.
To help you perfect your winter driving, we’ve put together 6 essential tips for safe winter driving.
1. Stay Prepared with a Winter Emergency Kit
According to the Met Office, the winter months are December, January and February. When these months roll around make sure you carry a well-stocked ‘Emergency Kit’ in your vehicle. This should include items like blankets, a torch, extra batteries, a first aid kit, a portable phone charger, a shovel, ice scrapers, a can of defroster, bottled water and non-perishable snacks.
Being prepared for being broken down in the cold or any other unexpected situations can help you stay calm if anything happens.
For more information, check out our guide to Giving your Car a winter health check.
2. Regularly Check Your Vehicle
Regular vehicle maintenance is essential for safe winter driving. Check your tyres are properly inflated and have enough tread to prevent sliding on slippery roads. For detailed guidance on checking your tyres, check out our Tyre Guide.
A service is a great idea if you can afford it before the winter months. If not, be sure to check and top up your oil, coolant and screen wash. Check your wipers are working efficiently, as they’ll be used far more in the winter and visibility will more of an issue. Make sure your lights are working, including the fog light function so you aren’t caught out on poorly lit roads. Your brakes should always be functioning well, but in the winter, longer stopping distances mean you should double check they are performing as they should be.
3. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
Stay alert and aware of changing weather conditions as you drive. Check the weather forecast before you set off to know what to expect. Pay attention to signs of freezing temperatures, such as frost on road signs, and adjust your driving accordingly. Which brings us to the next point…
4. Slow Down and Increase Following Distance
Winter conditions require you to change the way you drive.
Reduce your speed and don’t be tempted to drive faster for other drivers who are in a rush – safety is more important. Try and maintain a safe distance between you and other vehicles to allow for longer stopping distances. Aim to keep a minimum of 3 to 4 seconds between you and the vehicle in front. This extra time can help you react appropriately and stop safely if needed.
5. Use Your Lights
Visibility is crucial during winter driving, especially with shorter daylight hours. You need to be sure you can see the road and road users can see you. Always turn on your headlights in bad weather conditions and whenever it gets to twilight. Clean your headlights regularly and properly aligned for maximum visibility. Use your fog lights but remember to turn them off when visibility improves to avoid dazzling other drivers.
6. Practice Smoother Moves
Smooth and controlled movements behind the wheel help maintain traction on slippery surfaces. Avoid sudden acceleration or braking, as these actions can cause your car to skid. Begin turns gently and use steady, even pressure on the accelerator or brake pedal to prevent your wheels from spinning or locking.
Even if you drive carefully, emergencies can still occur during winter driving. If you find yourself in a skid, gently steer in the direction you want to go and avoid slamming on the brakes. If your vehicle becomes stuck, clear away as much snow as possible from the wheels and use sand, cat litter, or traction mats to gain traction.
Always have the contact information for your emergency or breakdown services readily available.
By following these tips, you can minimise the risks associated with winter weather conditions and make it a safe journey for yourself and others.
Don’t forget to get the most appropriate car insurance for you, so you’re covered if something goes wrong.
Looking for car insurance this winter?
Get a quote today with GoSkippy.
