Photo by Wesley Tingey on Unsplash
There is no doubt that the weather outside has a big impact on how we drive and the conditions we experience. This is especially true in winter when snow, rain, ice, fog and wind can all affect the roads we drive on. Winter weather can also affect your reaction time and the vehicle you drive. All these various challenges come into play over winter, and so it’s more important than ever to be aware of your safety.
The UK can be an especially tricky place for winter driving due to its climate. There is an average of 23.7 days of snowfall per year for example – and 290,000 tonnes of salt are used each year to keep UK roads safe. Even with measures like this in place, you still need to be aware of winter weather and do all you can to stay safe.
Get your vehicle serviced
Perhaps the best winter driving advice is to simply be prepared for winter conditions. This may sound obvious but it is estimated that 45% of UK drivers don't even check their vehicles before winter arrives! Looking after your car to stay safe is one of the most important things you can do, next to adapting how you drive in winter.
A great example of this in action is simply taking your car to be serviced at a local garage just before winter begins. This will ensure any issues are fixed and key things like antifreeze are topped up in advance. The net effect of this will be a vehicle which is less likely to breakdown and leave you stranded in freezing temperatures at the side of the road. Even if you have a service done, it is key to be vigilant afterwards to ensure your car is safe to drive still. Common examples of this include checking the tyre tread depth and that headlights are still working.
Look at traffic reports and weather warnings
It is also a good idea to think about your winter journey before setting off. Checking the local traffic reports is a good tip, as this can help you avoid driving on unsafe roads, or getting stuck in a huge tailback in freezing temperatures. The UK also has a reliable system of weather warnings to use – they are yellow, amber and red.
Red warnings are worth taking note of, especially as this signals severe winter weather is on its way and travel should be avoided. Many people will pack an emergency kit into their vehicle too, just in case they get caught out by unexpected winter weather. This will usually include items like extra jumpers, blankets, food, drink and a shovel.
Slow down!
Probably the best tip around actually driving in winter is being aware of your speed. A report from 2015 by Highways England found that excess speed contributes to 1 in 9 deaths on UK roads. Speed is particularly dangerous in winter, when braking distances are increased and visibility can be poor. It is much better to simply slow down and take it steady when you’re behind the wheel in this season.
Be aware of heavy rain
Photo by reza shayestehpour on Unsplash
Heavy rain rather than snow or ice is the most dangerous driving condition to be aware of. As the UK gets a lot of rain throughout the year, drivers get used to it and take it too lightly. In winter, this can be a toxic mix when more rain combines with reduced visibility. Be aware of how close you are to other vehicles, drive smoothly, and do not brake too heavily.
Lots of rain can also increase the risk of aquaplaning. This is where your car tyres lose contact with the road as you drive through a body of standing water. To avoid this, be aware of not driving into standing water too quickly. If it does happen, come off all your pedals and avoid turning until you feel in control again.
Be aware of other testing conditions too
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
As we have already noted, being aware of the weather is key when driving in winter. Strong winds, for example, can be a problem. If you find yourself driving in these, take extra care when going over bridges or open ground as this is where they can be felt the most. Fog is another winter problem and you must slow down and put your fog lights on to drive safely in this instance. When it comes to driving in snow and ice, the key thing is to slow right down once more and not brake too sharply, as this can cause you to skid. By being aware of what conditions you could face and how to drive safely in them, you have a much greater chance of arriving in one piece.
Let The Fast Fit Centre get your car winter ready
Although we have gone past Xmas now, winter weather can actually be just as big a problem in January or February. To ensure your car is in the best shape to handle this, call The Fast Fit Centre today on 01744 808586. Based in St Helens, we can get your vehicle ready to face whatever Mother Nature throws at it.
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