Everyone needs to be a little more careful on the roads at this time of the year. Indeed, more accidents happen when the weather is cold and there is snow on the ground. So, you just need to pay attention to all the tips on this page to stay safe. We’ve taken a look at some of the biggest issues that affect drivers during the winter months. Speed is life for the world’s fastest car owners but in heavy snow, they need to be very careful to dive more than other ordinary drivers because winter conditions can be so unpredictable. With a bit of luck, you’ll manage to travel without any problems if you put our advice to good use. Nobody wants you to end up in the hospital just before Christmas, and so this article could be the most important thing you read this year.
Table of Contents
Winter Driving Tips
Image Credit: Chris F
Check your fluid levels
Firstly, you need to start checking the fluid levels in your car every couple of days. That is especially the case when it comes to making sure you have enough antifreeze. Essential engine maintenance should help you to gain peace of mind. The last thing you need is for the engine to cease up every morning before work. That could mean you arrive at the office late and get into trouble. Also, you need to check your coolant levels too. It might sound odd, but your car is more likely to overheat when the temperature is low. You can consult your manual if you don’t know how much fluid to add to your engine. Alternatively, you can search online for the information.
Assess your tyre tread
Again, you need to take a look at your manual when it comes to assessing the tread on your tyres. It’s not a foolproof strategy, but some people choose to use the coins in their pocket. Your tyres should have enough tread for you to insert a two-pence piece. Presuming yours are lower than that, it might be time to visit a garage. Replacing your tyres should help to ensure you don’t slide all over the road in the worst conditions. You can usually save money by purchasing part-worn products. However, they aren’t going to last as long. So, you just need to work out the costs and determine the best solution.
Image Credit: Phil Long
Buy winter tyres
Those of you who want to remain as safe as possible should purchase winter tyres. Those products are made to help your car stay on the road in terrible conditions. They are usually a little more expensive than the alternatives, but they perform better. Companies that sell those specialist items will also offer a fitting service you can buy. Make sure you let the professionals put the new tyres on your vehicle because you don’t want to take any risks. Research shows that cars with winter tyres are less likely to become involved in an accident at this time of the year.
Always drive slow
The speed limits set on our roads today are there to keep us all safe. However, you don’t have to travel at full speed on any road at this time of the year. In fact, it’s wise to drive slower if you want to avoid accidents. Of course, driving too slowly could mean you cause obstructions on the highway. While you don’t have to reach the speed limit, it’s wise to travel with the flow of traffic. Do not go faster than 45 mph unless you are commuting on a motorway. Otherwise, you might place lives at risk if conditions are poor.
Keep essential items in your car
There are certain items everyone will need to keep in their cars at this time of the year. For instance, it’s wise to store ice scrapers, warm clothes, and a first aid kit at the very least. You can also keep jump leads, shovels, and reflective warning signs if you want to stay safe. You never know when you might get snowed in or break down on a busy road. So long as you have all those items in your car, you can deal with any situation. A spare mobile phone and charger will also help if you have concerns.
Don’t get too close to the car in front
As we’re sure you’ll understand, braking distances can more than double in poor conditions. That is why you must keep a reasonable distance between your car and the others on the road. Under normal circumstances, you would leave around two car lengths between yourself and the car in front. When there is ice or snow on the ground, it won’t hurt to double that gap. The last thing you want to do is get involved in a crash and risk your life. Christmas is only just around the corner, and your kids are looking forward to a special day.
Those winter driving tips should be enough to guarantee you don’t end up in the hospital this year. The basic rule of thumb is that you just need to take things steady and check your vehicle. So long as you put all the tips on this page into practice, you should have no concerns. Nobody likes driving when the weather is bad, but sometimes you will have no other option. We hope you manage to avoid bad incidents and have a great time during the holidays!
