The winter can bring hazardous driving conditions so it’s important that drivers prepare and take extra precaution when out on the road. From driving in heavy downpours and sleet, to ice and snow. In no particular order, we’ve got 5 of our top tips to advise you on road safety during the winter months. Not only will they help keep you safe, but your passengers and other motorists too.
1 – Keep an emergency kit
During the winter months, we recommend putting together an emergency kit to keep in your car. If you’re in a sticky situation, these essential items will come in handy.
- A set of warm clothes
- A torch
- A warning triangle
- Blankets
- Snacks and water
- Windscreen wash
- Anti-freeze and an ice scraper
- A shovel
- A mobile phone charger
- A full First Aid kit
- Sunglasses for low sunshine
2 – Prepare for your journey
Prior to heading out on the road, make sure you plan your journey. By carrying out the following, you’ll arrive at your destination on time and more importantly, safely.
- Check the local and national weather forecasts
- Tune in for any travel information and weather updates that will affect your route
- Pick a safe route for your journey, even if it takes slightly longer
- Let someone know what time you’re leaving, when you expect to arrive and once you get to your destination
- Charge your mobile fully
3 – Give your car a thorough check
We recommend that your car is serviced before the winter and that you regularly maintain it. In the winter, your car easily gets dirty and faces harsher conditions; keep the following tips in mind to keep your vehicle in good shape this season.
- Book your car in for a major service
- Continue to top up your windscreen wash, oil and other fluids
- Regularly clean its lights, mirrors and windows
- Double check your lights are in working order
- Maintain your car’s tyre pressure and keep an eye on the tread depth
4 – Driving in harsh conditions
It can be potentially dangerous driving in weather conditions such as snow and ice. If you need to make a journey, please remember these tips.
- Drive slower than the speed limit
- Increase your braking distance
- Don’t steer sharply
- Avoid braking severely or suddenly
- Always keep an eye out for black ice
- If you feel like your car is skidding, lower your gear smoothly and press the pedal gently, but continuously
- Take extra care when approaching bends and junctions, particularly sharp ones
5 – Prepare yourself
Sounds extreme, but if you’re venturing out on a long journey where it’s icy or snowing, you need to be prepared and fully alert on the road.
- Dress for the weather. Although you’re inside your vehicle, if you get stuck it’s important that you keep warm
- Make sure you’re up for driving and have had enough sleep
- Avoid driving if you’ve had any alcohol
- If you don’t feel comfortable, don’t drive
We hope our advice helps you with preparing to drive in winter weather. At Fourways Self Drive, road safety is very important to us so in addition to all of our vehicles being covered by full breakdown cover we also offer a 24/7 emergency line manned by Fourways’ own staff.
All of our cars are under a year old and fully maintained to the highest standard at all times. If you’d like to know more about our vehicle hire, please get in contact.