We all know winter weather can be unpredictable and snowy conditions can make driving a real challenge for motorists - even leading to an accident.
But being prepared can be life saving or simply make for a more comfortable journey. With this in mind it is important to prepare before embarking on a journey in the snow. It's also worth knowing how to prepare yourself and your car, while considering different ways to approach your driving when faced with adverse conditions.
Follow these tips to help make your journey safer.
- Check the weather forecast
- Tell someone what time you are expecting to arrive
- Charge your phone
- If the weather is particularly bad, ask yourself – is your journey essential?
- Is there another way to get there?
- Make sure your wipers and lights are working correctly
- Check your tyres have plenty of tread depth and are at the correct pressure for your journey
- Remember ‘POWER’ checks: Petrol / Oil / Water / Electrics / Rubber
Windy Weather
- Watch out for debris on the road
- Keep back from high sided vehicles
- Give cyclists space (1.5 metres)
Heavy Rain
- In wet weather, stopping distances will be at least double than on a dry road. This is because your tyres have less grip
- If your steering becomes unresponsive, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually
- Do not use cruise control
Foggy Conditions
- Drive slowly and use dipped headlights
- If visibility is seriously reduced, use your front and rear fog lights, but remember to switch them off when visibility improves
- Don’t drive too close to the vehicle in front incase they have to suddenly stop
Floods
- Try to avoid standing water if possible
- Drive very slowly in first gear but keep the engine speed high
- Avoid the deepest water, which is usually near the kerb
- Let approaching cars pass first
- Test your brakes once you are through the flood water
Icy Conditions
- It can take ten times longer to stop in icy conditions
- Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin
