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Tips for safer driving this winter

Whether you drive for a living or are just planning on making extra trips over the festive season and the winter you need to be prepared for driving in adverse conditions.

Before you set off you should throughly check your vehicle to make sure it is safe to drive. Things to look out for include;

  • Lights - are they clean and fully working? Remember to check the rear tail lights and break lights too.
  • Battery - is it fully charged?
  • Tyre condition - Do your tyres meet the legal minimum tread depth limits? Also check to make sure they are properly inflated for better grip.
  • Fluids - check and top-up all fluids especially windscreen wash, anti-freeze and engine oil.
  • Check your brakes before you set off so you know that they are working properly.

Before making a journey you should sufficiently de-ice your vehicle checking that you can see out of all of the windows. While de-icing remember not to leave the engine running and your vehicle unattended as if it is stolen this could invalidate your insurance policy.

Try to keep your fuel tank at least half full in case you get caught up in traffic delays or redirections that you weren’t prepared for. Planning your route in advance and checking the weather forecast will help you stay informed.

Should you find yourself having to drive in bad weather conditions you should drive carefully remembering to;

  • Keep your distance from other vehicles
  • Take your time
  • Anticipate the traffic ahead of you

Experts advise keeping an emergency kit in your car in case you do break down. Your emergency kit should consist of;

  • Warm clothes
  • Wellington boots
  • Shovel
  • Blanket
  • First Aid Kit
  • Torch
  • Hazard warning triangle

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