With the winter season well underway and the weather getting colder by the day, that school run or commute to work is about to become a whole lot more difficult. The cooler season is after all well known for its severe weather and poor driving conditions, with the presence of snow and ice wreaking havoc on UK roads.
Knowing how to adapt your driving style to the season will not only keep you safe, it’ll give you the confidence to go about your day whatever the winter weather throws at you. Here we share our top tips for driving in snow to get you started.
Preparation makes perfect so before you depart on your snowy car journey, plan ahead. Check that your route is clear, and stick to main roads which are more likely to be gritted. Make sure your car is ready for the journey by de-icing your windscreen for better visibility, checking your wipers are in good condition, and ensuring that your lights are working correctly.
You should also check the condition of your tyres and your screen wash levels to ensure optimum safety in snowy weather conditions.
Harsh acceleration and snow don’t mix, so when altering your driving style for the season, go easy on the throttle.
Harsh acceleration will increase the risk of skidding and wheel spinning so err on the side of caution with gentler driving. To avoid wheel spinning when pulling off, select second gear before easing off the clutch.
The same gentle approach should be taken when braking. Instead of fully engaging your brake pedal, try to slow down by braking through your gears, but don’t forget about other road users. Press your brake pedal lightly to indicate that you are slowing down to other drivers.
Harsh braking should be avoided at all costs. Keep your distance from other road users too. It’s recommended that you leave as much as 10 times the normal stopping distance between you and the vehicle in front so take your time by transitioning to a lower gear.
We may be using our vehicle’s lights a little earlier due to the shorter days but you shouldn’t rely on your daytime running lights when it’s snowing, even if conditions are bright. With most makes and models, daytime running lights don’t provide illumination at the rear of the vehicle. In snow, use your dipped headlights just as you would at night.
Web Design Northampton by New Edge
Ⓒ Copyright SCRACS
