subject: Winter Driving Tips [print this page] When driving in the winter, we can often come up against adverse weather conditions, and it really pays to be prepared for every eventuality. The leading cause of death during winter conditions is transport accidents, so make sure that you know how to react if you ever come up against this situation.
Before heading out in the snow, make sure:
Your brakes, windscreen wipers, heaters, defrosting system and exhaust are all in good condition. If you are making a long journey and you are due a service, get it done early to make sure you are protected.
Check your antifreeze levels and add some into your windscreen wipers to make sure that the water doesn't freeze there.
Check that your tyres are properly inflated and they don't need inflating. This will also make your fuel last a lot longer.
Keep your petrol tank as full as possible, in case you get stuck or have to take another route to the one you planned.
Put an extra car key in your pocket. It may sound a little silly but a lot of people experience problems with their central locking or breaking the key in the lock when its cold. Combat this by having a spare key!
Make sure that you have a blanket in the car, as well as some de-icer. Its often a good idea to also keep a broom or a spade in the eventuality that you get snowed in or stuck in the snow.
Keep your towing company's number in a convenient and obvious place so you can contact them if you get stuck. Do the same with your Car Insurance details.
