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Winter Driving Tips: How to Stay Safe on the Road

Writer's picture: GoGo Car HireGoGo Car Hire

Winter Driving Tips: How to Stay Safe on the Road

Coping with cold, snow, and ice can be challenging when driving during the winter months in the UK. The roads can become hazardous, and accidents and breakdowns are more common. To help you stay safe and avoid any mishaps, here are some top tips for winter driving:

1. Take it Slow: The roads can be dangerous in winter when there's snow, ice, or sleet. It's crucial to reduce your speed and take it slow. Stopping distances can be up to 10 times longer when it's icy, so gentle manoeuvres and slow speeds are key to safe driving in ice and snow.


2. Plan Ahead: Allow extra time for your winter journeys. Check the weather forecast and plan your routes around major roads, which are more likely to be cleared and gritted. It's also a good idea to get up at least 10 minutes early to give yourself time to de-ice the car and ensure you have a clear view of the road.


3. Maintain Visibility: Clear all windows using a scraper and de-icer before setting off. Make sure your windscreen is fully demisted for optimal visibility. Keep the windscreen and other windows clear of dirt and snow to avoid fines. Replace worn or damaged wiper blades and use a suitable additive in your screenwash to reduce the chance of it freezing.


4. Drive Smoothly: When driving on winter roads, pull away in second gear, easing your foot off the clutch gently to avoid wheel-spin. Apply your brakes gently if necessary, as harsh braking can cause your vehicle to lose control. Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and avoid sudden movements.


5. Uphill and Downhill Driving: When driving uphill, leave plenty of room between other cars or wait until it's clear so you don't have to stop partway up. Keep a constant speed and try to avoid changing gears on the hill. When driving downhill, slow down before the descent, use a low gear, and try to avoid excessive braking. Leave ample space between your car and the one in front of you


6. Be Prepared for Getting Stuck: If you get stuck in snow or ice, straighten the steering and clear the snow from the wheels. Place a sack or old rug in front of the driving wheels to provide the tires with some grip. It's also essential to carry an emergency kit in your car, including an ice scraper, de-icer, torch with spare batteries, first aid kit, and a fully-charged mobile phone.


7. Look After Your Vehicle: Look after your car's batteries and electrics, as they can be affected by the cold weather. Turn off electrical loads like lights, heated rear window, and wipers before trying to start the engine. Use the starter in short bursts and wait 30 seconds between attempts if the engine doesn't start quickly. Top up your antifreeze in cold weather to protect your engine.


8. Choose the Right Winter Tires: Consider getting winter tires or all-season tires, which are made from a special rubber that provides better grip in cold, wet conditions. Ensure your tires have at least 3mm of tread for the winter. Avoid letting air out of your tires to get more grip, as it's unsafe and ineffective.


9. Stay Visible: With shorter days and poor visibility during winter, it's essential to make your car visible to other drivers. Ensure all your car lights are working, including headlights, taillights, and indicators. Keep your number plates clean to avoid fines. Use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced and switch off fog lights when visibility improves.


10. Carry the Essentials: In addition to the emergency kit mentioned earlier, keep essential items in your car for winter driving. This may include warm clothes, waterproofs, high-vis jackets, sturdy footwear, hot drinks, snacks, a shovel, jump leads, and warning triangles.

Remember, safety should always be the top priority when driving in winter conditions. By following these tips, you can help ensure a safe and smooth journey on the UK roads during the winter season.


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