subject: Top Tips On How To Keep Safe On the Road This Winter [print this page] Winter is the harshest time of year upon drivers, not only do they need to have their regular winter servicing as the winter months settle in, they need to spend more time looking after their car on a day to day basis. Most drivers see bad weather as a mere inconvenience, yet if you don't take the necessary precautions it could become dangerous for you and others.
Last year, there were a great number of accidents during the winter season due to the excessive amount of snow and ice that enveloped the entire country. It was also discovered that many drivers did not know how to deal with ice or snow and winter months, making the winter season a dangerous one for U.K drivers.
Being a safe driver during the winter months is about planning ahead, having the relevant equipment and knowledge. It is always recommended during winter that you make sure your car is serviced and specifically the tires, engine and brakes are checked out by a professional and you on a regular basis.
On a daily basis, specifically during the worst days, get up a little earlier so that you can defrost your windows using the relevant equipment. It also leaves time to drive slower pace. Do further checks upon the car and remove any snow from the roof to avoid it falling and blocking your view as you drive. Add a winter breakdown kit to your car as well, so that you're never left out in the danger of the cold for too long. This should include anything you need to repair the car, breakdown number and mobile and anything you need to sustain yourself (food, drink, blanket, torch etc). Plus keep a pair of dry sensible shoes in the car to drive with, as wearing your wet everyday shoes may cause your feet to slip on the brake, clutch or accelerator.
Plan your journeys ahead to enable you to concentrate on the road, rather than the directions. It's a good idea to take main roads in winter as these are more likely to have been gritted, thus are far safer. If you are following a Sat-Nav, it may not take into account weather conditions, thus leading you to side roads that are not as safe thus it may be best to avoid using this technology on days where there is snow or ice.
Make sure you drive safely in the snow or ice by keeping a consistent but slower pace than normal, as too much power can cause you to skid. Always make sure you don't come down too hard on the brakes, as applying the brakes with a lot of power surprising makes your car skid or even worsens your control over your car when skidding on ice.
Be safe on the road by preparing in advance and being very careful on the road never rush when driving in snow or ice.
