Driving in the winter can be stressful with longer nights meaning the busiest hours on the road are in the dark, and the added risk of the weather quickly changing, it can become too stressful to even try. Despite this there are things you can do that can help to make sure both you and your vehicle are prepared for any circumstance this winter.
Preparing your car for winter
Ensuring your car is service and in a good state before the winter begins is vital. If you are concerned about your car breaking down even before you leave home then consider adding home start cover to your breakdown policy.
Car battery
Extra usage of car lights and heating can often strain car batteries. If your car battery is approaching the five year mark then it may be a good time to consider replacing it with a new one before your existing one lets you down.
Windows
The low sun in winter can significantly reduce your visibility on the road especially when it reflects off wet roads or snow, sunglasses can often come in handy.
Salt on the road can cause your car to very quickly become dirty, ensuring your washer fluid is always topped up so that you can clear your windscreen whenever needed. Extra de-ice or antifreeze is also a good idea to have stored in your car.
Tyres
If you live somewhere that experiences high amounts of snow consider investing in some snow tyres to provide your car with extra grip on slippery roads.
Make sure that your tyres have the legal tread limit of 1.6mm for cars, but at least 3 mm is preferred in the wetter weather.
Emergency kit
If the worst is to happen then being prepared is key. Keep an emergency kit in the car as a safety procuration, this can include blankets, warm coats and wellington boots. That way if you are in need of some help then you can be reassured that you have everything you need to stay warm and safe.
Before you set off
Before you leave for any reason, taking into consideration your reason for travel is essential, in times where the weather takes a turn for the worse, emergency services often advise people to stay home unless it can not be avoided. If you do need to travel in the winter try to stick to major roads which are more likely to be cleared and gritted.
A uncommon fact, driving your car with snow on is illegal so make sure you have wiped everything off your car before you set off, double checking there is no snow on your lights or number plate.
Driving tips for winter
As expected you will need to drive more carefully than normal over the winter especially if the weather takes a turn for the worse. The most important thing to do when driving is try to remain calm, often it can be very nerve-wracking but stress won’t help your concentration, here are some tips to keep safe:
- Drive slower so that you have a great stopping distance between you and other vehicles in front.
- Avoid hard braking and try to reduce your speed slowly.
- If you do begin to skid, release the brakes and turn smoothly into the slide.
- If you are struggling to pull off in the snow the try and pull of in second gear instead of first
- Don’t try to get through flood water. It can be very dangerous and you may not be covered by your insurer, powering through puddles to splash pedestrians is also a road traffic offence.
At Compare For Cancer we want you to be protected as possible when driving. With our price comparison tool getting a quote from a wide range of insurance providers has never been easier! We can help you to find the best policy for you and help you save money on your car insurance. Get a quote today!