Introduction
As the dark evenings creep in and the frost bites, winter brings some extra challenges for drivers in the UK. Black ice and snowfall can all affect your visibility, making it vital to take extra precautions during every single drive.
To help you prepare, we've developed a quick guide full of tips, checks and essential kit to make sure you're ready for whatever the season has in store.
The Dos and Don'ts of Winter
Winter Driving can be challenging due to bad weather conditions such as snow, ice, and reduced visibility. It's essential to adapt your driving style and ensure your vehicle is prepared for the conditions. Here are some dos and don'ts of driving in winter:
DO
Drive Slowly: Reduce your speed and increase following distances to allow for longer stopping distances on slippery roads.
Use Winter Tyres: Consider switching to winter tyres, which provide better traction in cold weather and on icy roads.
Clear Snow and Ice: Before setting off, ensure all windows, lights and mirrors are clear of snow and ice for maximum visibility.
Brake Gently: Apply brakes gently to avoid skidding, especially when approaching different sections of roads.
Stay Informed: Check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling. Be aware of any potential hazards on your route.
Don'ts
Use Fog lights unless they are needed: Your fog lights should only be used if the visibility is less than 100m. If there is no fog, make sure they're off as it could be a distraction for other road users.
Brake Suddenly: Breaking suddenly could lock your wheels and cause skidding, try to break gently, and accelerate as smoothly as possible.
Drive too fast: Make sure you have time to react, use low revs and move to a higher gear as quick as possible. If you're driving an EV, remember they tend to accelerate faster than traditional vehicles.
Winter Driving Checks
Make sure your vehicle is ready to handle the challenge of cold weather. Here are some essential checks to perform:
Lights: Ensure all lights are functions properly, including headlights, brake lights and all other lights on the vehicle.
Battery: Cold weather can put strain on the battery. Have it tested and replace if necessary.
Tyres: Inspect the tread depth and consider switching to winter tyres for improved traction.
Brakes: Have your brakes checked to ensure they are in good working order.
Glass: Keep your windscreen clean and clear. Check it for chips and cracks and make sure a good screen wash is used to avoid your washer jets being frozen.
Wipers: Check all wipers for damage and replace them if need be. Make sure they are clear of anything before you start your journey.
Fuel: Make sure you have enough fuel for the journey you plan to take. This will make sure that you can get home safely and keep the heating on if you are stuck in traffic or heavy snow.
Winter Driving Kit
Ice Scraper: To clear snow and ice from windows, lights, and mirrors.
First Aid Kit: Essential in case of emergencies.
Food and Water: If you are stuck in traffic this will help you sustain you for longer.
High Visibility vest and warning triangle: So, drivers can see you if you are broken down.
Torch: For visibility during the dark winter times especially in a breakdown.
Warm Clothes: If you get stuck or must leave the vehicle, packing warm clothes will keep you warm.
Map: Carry a map even if you have a Satnav or mobile in case you don't have signal or power!
Tips for EVs.
Low temperatures cause slower charging and a decrease in range for electric vehicles (EVs) due to reduced chemical reactions. Some EVs have temperature regulation systems, but it's recommended to keep them plugged in when not in use. To maximize your car's driving range and ensure safety on the road, maintain recommended tire pressure, drive at moderate speeds, and avoid sudden acceleration or excessive braking. You can also conserve energy by limiting the use of temperature controls and using range efficient modes. For electric vehicles, installing winter tires can improve grip on icy roads. However, it's important to drive more slowly in severe weather conditions, giving yourself more time to react if needed.
For a downloadable version, take a look on Novunas site -