Wintry conditions pose a special kind of challenge to motorists in the UK. Visibility is poorer, as a result of night drawing in sooner, and of fog occasionally descending. Road surfaces are slipperier, too – which increases braking distance, and the likelihood of a collision.
By doing a little bit of preparation, and modifying your driving style, you can minimise the threat posed by the season. But exactly how? Let’s take a look at a few key steps.
Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Weather
Getting a vehicle ready for winter means performing a few key pieces of maintenance. First, you’ll want to check your tyres. Is the tread deep enough? Ideally, it should be well above the legal minimum of 1.6mm. Moreover, the tyres themselves should be adequately inflated. This will enhance grip, and improve your handling and stopping distance.
Your screenwash should be topped up. You might also increase the concentration to reduce the risk of it freezing. Wipers can be replaced, too. It’s also worth thinking about whether you’re legally entitled to drive. Before heading out, make sure your car insurance is up to date.
Mastering Safe Driving Techniques on Snowy Roads
Driving on snowy roads can be particularly tricky, especially if you don’t have access to snow chains or socks. In most cases, it’s worth avoiding driving through the snow entirely. Look at the weather forecast, and plan your trip accordingly. If you must drive in freezing conditions, it’s a good idea to slow down, keep a reasonable distance from the car in front, and stick to lower gears for maximum traction.
What to Do If Things Go Wrong on the Road
In some cases, you might find that your car is sliding in the snow or ice. Take your foot off the throttle, steer in the direction you’d like to go, and press the brake. If you don’t have ABS, you should tap the brake repeatedly, instead.
Another emergency situation involves getting stuck in the snow. There are a number of ways to deal with this, including turning off traction control and clearing the space around the tyres. A screwdriver can help you clear snow from the treads, which can allow you to get that all-important grip back.
This is where winter tyres can be a massive benefit. They come with deeper treads, and they tend to remain loose and pliant, even in cold weather.