Driving in cold weather – 5 tips

As the weather plummets and the roads become icy, it is crucial for drivers to take extra care and precautions when they’re on the roads.

Whether you’re heading off for some winter shopping, going on a long journey to the in-laws this Christmas, or driving at night, drivers should be extra careful in cold and icy conditions.

Drivers should also take extra precautions in case of a breakdown. Stock your car with drinks, snacks, a hot flask, phone charger and blanket in case of an emergency.

In this article we look at five things drivers should take note of when they’re driving this winter.

Before you leave

• Allow extra time for winter journeys.
• Plan routes around major roads, which are more likely to be cleared and gritted.
• Try to get up at least 10 minutes early to give you time to de-ice the car.
• Wear comfortable, dry shoes for driving so your feet don’t slip on the pedals.
• Check fuel levels – have at least a quarter of a tank in case of unexpected delays.
• Clear all windows using a scraper and de-icer and wait until the windscreen’s fully demisted.
• If you drive an automatic, check the handbook – some have a winter mode or recommend selecting ‘2’ in slippery conditions.

Driving on winter roads

• Pull away in second gear, easing your foot off the clutch gently to avoid wheel-spin.
• If you have to use your brakes, apply them gently.
• Driving uphill – leave plenty of room between other cars or wait until it’s clear so you don’t have to stop part way up. Keep a constant speed and try to avoid having to change gear on the hill.
• Driving downhill – slow down before the hill, use a low gear and try to avoid braking. Leave as much room as you can after the car in front.

Make sure your windows are clear

• Keep the windscreen and other windows clear of dirt and snow to avoid a fine.
• Clear snow from the roof – it can fall onto the windscreen and block your view.
• Air-con demists the screen faster and reduces condensation.
• Replace worn or damaged wiper blades.
• Don’t leave your wipers on auto when you park up if there’s a risk of frost. If the blades freeze to the screen, you could damage the blades or wiper motor when you turn the ignition on.
• Use a suitable additive in your screenwash to reduce the chance of it freezing.

Look after batteries and electrics

Car batteries rarely last longer than 5 years. There are extra demands on them in the winter thanks to lights, heating and wipers. Here are some tips to prevent a flat battery in winter:

• Turn off electrical loads like lights, heated rear window and wipers before trying to start the engine.
• Use the starter in short 5-second bursts.
• If the engine doesn’t start quickly, wait 30 seconds between attempts.
• If you don’t use your car often, give it a regular overnight trickle charge.

Car winter checklist

No matter how safely you drive, there’s still a chance you could get stuck somewhere in poor weather. Pack a winter emergency kit, just in case. That way you’ll be prepared for a long wait in the cold. Here’s what to include:

• Warm clothes, waterproofs and high-vis jackets
• Sturdy footwear
• Hot drinks and snacks
• Shovel
• Jump leads
• Warning triangles
• Ice scraper
• De-icer Torch and spare batteries
• First aid kit

Further reading

Driver and passenger claims – Oakwood Solicitors

Driving in adverse weather conditions – Highway Code

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