Top tips for Winter Driving - Be Prepared and Stay Safe!

Breakdowns and accidents are more common in the winter months when road conditions are challenging!

 

 

Here are PDT's top tips for driving in winter and staying safe on snowy and icy roads:

 

Simple checks you should carry out on your vehicle once a month

 

  Tyres - It is vital to regularly check tread depth and tyre pressures. 

 

  Fluid Levels - Check your oil level and keep it topped up, but don't overfill it. 

 

  Windscreen - Keep the washer fluid topped up and check the wiper blades, replacing them as necessary

 

  Lights - Make sure your front and rear lights and indicators are working properly

 

Other things to check during the winter months

  • RUN IT - Car batteries face a severe test in Winter because of the extra demands of running heating fans and lights. Short journeys can put extra strain on the battery so try to plan a longer run occasionally and consider switching off energy sapping equipment

 

  • CLEAN IT - Make sure you keep your car clean, especially the lights and windscreen. Plus make sure you clear your windscreen before you drive away

 

  • SERVICE IT - Make sure your car is regularly serviced in line with the manufacturer's recommended service intervals, this can be found in your vehicle handbook

 

  • PACK IT - Take some emergency kit with you in case you encounter trouble. 

 

It is really important that you immediately adjust your driving to suit the weather conditions!

 

SNOW/ICE - Avoid sudden braking, sharp turns or sudden increases in speed. 

 

RAIN - It can take twice as long to stop when the roads are wet compared to when they are dry. 

 

FLOODS - If you have to go through a flood, drive slowly in first gear and avoid the deepest water

 

FOG - Drive slowly and use dipped headlights/fog lights so that other vehicles can see you. 

 

AND FINALLY .. 

  • Add useful telephone numbers to your mobile phone
  • Take extra care when the clocks change, you may not be used to driving in the dark
  • Minimise distractions and never use your mobile phone whilst driving
  • Make sure you are fit to drive
  • Leave extra space around you, thinking space, braking space and maneuvering space