As winter grips, a familiar sense of trepidation settles in for many drivers. Winter driving poses unique challenges that require careful preparation and knowledge to navigate safely.
Each icy road and dwindling daylight bring with it the potential for accidents, necessitating a few essential winter driving tips will help ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Before setting out, drivers should consider their vehicle’s condition and the tools that will aid in safe travel. From checking your windscreen wipers to assessing tyre tread, these fundamental vehicle checks form the basis of winter safety. Being mindful of your journey and the ever-changing weather conditions is crucial for making informed decisions.
This article provides practical tips for winter driving that prioritise safety and preparedness. By knowing the proper techniques, assembling a winter driving kit, and handling unexpected challenges, drivers can enhance their confidence and stay safe on the roads this winter.
Essential Vehicle Checks Before Driving
As the winter months approach, the importance of vehicle maintenance becomes even more critical. Navigating cold weather and adverse road conditions requires a vehicle that can handle the challenge, ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road.
28% of breakdowns are battery related
The RAC estimates that 28% of breakdown issues are battery-related, so make sure you keep it charged and in good health.
Here are some essential winter driving tips and vehicle checks to remember before driving in winter conditions:
Inspect Windscreen Wipers
Windscreen wipers are crucial in maintaining visibility during heavy snow and icy conditions. To ensure they perform effectively, begin by inspecting your wiper blades for wear or damage and replacing them as necessary.
If there’s a risk of frost, avoid leaving your wipers in auto mode when parking; frozen wipers can adhere to the windscreen and cause damage when activated.
A screenwash additive can help prevent it from freezing, maintaining a clear view even in harsh weather. Clear any snow from your car roof, as snow can slide down and obstruct your view.
Check Tyres for Tread and Pressure
Your vehicle’s tyres are vital for safe driving in winter conditions. Regularly check the tyre tread depth; using a coin can be an effective gauge, ensuring the tread is above 3mm for optimal safety.
Tyre pressure should align with your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations, especially as cold temperatures can cause pressure drop. Winter tyres, designed for conditions of 7°C and below, can significantly enhance traction and reduce stopping distances by up to 40%, making them a wise investment.
Conduct tyre inspections when cold to get an accurate pressure reading, ideally at least once a month.
Ensure Fluid Levels Are Adequate
Cold weather conditions can impact the performance of your vehicle’s fluids, so maintaining adequate levels is essential.
Check your oil levels regularly to ensure your engine runs smoothly throughout winter. Verify that your coolant meets the manufacturer’s specifications and is sufficient to handle the freezing temperatures.
Opt for winter-grade windshield washer fluid with antifreeze properties, particularly before a storm hits, to prevent it from freezing and to ensure clear visibility.
Plan Your Journey Wisely
Navigating wintery conditions requires thoughtful preparation to ensure a safe journey. With harsh braking risks and icy roads as common challenges, planning your route before setting out is vital.
Consider the types of roads you’ll traverse, focusing on main roads likely to be cleared and gritted. By identifying potential hazards, such as steep hills and high-traffic areas, you can mitigate risks associated with adverse weather conditions.
It’s also always wise to build plenty of time into your schedule to comply with speed limits and avoid the temptation to rush, especially when unexpected delays arise due to the cold weather.
Allow Extra Time for Travel
Allowing extra time for travel during winter isn’t just a safety measure—it’s a necessity.
Snowy and icy roads can dramatically extend your travel time, and a careful approach can prevent accidents. Incorporate sufficient time for rest stops into your journey planning, anticipating possible severe weather that might slow your pace.
Always be prepared to adapt your plans based on real-time weather forecasts and advisories, considering safer and more navigable alternative routes if needed.
Remember that maintaining a safe stopping distance on snow-covered roads is essential, as braking can take up to ten times longer in these hazardous conditions.
Also, consider if your journey is absolutely necessary before setting out.
Monitor Weather Conditions
Winter weather is unpredictable, changing rapidly from clear skies to heavy snow or fog.
Before embarking on your journey, staying informed about the latest weather and road conditions is crucial. Regularly check traffic reports and weather forecasts to anticipate potential challenges like rain, hail, or ice.
Be mindful of the winter sun’s glare, which can further reduce visibility during your drive.
Prepare for these extreme conditions by ensuring your vehicle is equipped with essentials like winter tyres and functioning fog lights, and be ready to adjust your driving to keep safety at the forefront.
In the winter months, sharing your travel plans with family or friends adds an extra layer of safety. Extreme weather conditions like snow and sleet can necessitate unexpected route changes, making informing others of your intended journey crucial.
Employers and transport operators (including charities running community transport services) should also ensure their staff know the protocols for dealing with emergencies, such as breakdowns or accidents, during winter.
A comprehensive risk assessment that accounts for these winter hazards can significantly improve safety outcomes. Allowing extra travel time and opting for major roads, which authorities prioritise for clearing and gritting, enhance substantially your journey’s safety.
Prepare a Winter Driving Kit
When venturing out in winter conditions, being prepared can make a significant difference between a safe journey and finding yourself in a precarious situation.
Heavy snow, icy roads, and extreme weather conditions demand that we rethink our standard vehicle equipment.
To navigate these wintery conditions with peace of mind, assembling a comprehensive winter driving kit is essential.
Include Essential Tools and Supplies
Preparation is key for the winter months when road conditions can change rapidly. Some key winter driving tips are to ensure that your vehicle is equipped with the following essential tools and supplies:
- Enough fuel: Make sure you have enough fuel in your tank for the journey. Also, consider filling your vehicle higher for longer journeys, as if you get stuck on the off chance, you can use your car engine to keep warm.
- Snow Shovel and Broom: These will help clear snow off your car and around your tyres if stuck.
- Ice Scraper and De-icer: These are critical for maintaining clear visibility through the windscreens, as ice accumulation is common during cold weather.
- Jumper Cables: Cold temperatures can often sap battery power, making jumper cables indispensable.
- Flashlight and Spare Batteries: They provide light during dark winter evenings and assist in signalling for help.
- Warning Devices: Items such as a warning triangle ensure your visibility to other drivers when pulled over. Some authorities even advise to pack flares when the weather gets really bad.
- First Aid Kit: Include essentials like a tourniquet, bandages, and antiseptic wipes.
- Blankets and Warm Clothes: If you’re stranded, keeping warm is vital, so pack extra layers, gloves, and hats. Don’t forget to pack a waterproof one, which you can wear on top of your layers and underneath thicker jackets or hoodies. It could also be wise to pack a warm sleeping bag, just in case your journey takes you on roads not easily accessible.
- Sunglasses: It seems counterintuitive, but the sun is lower in winter, and its glare on the windscreen can be hazardous. Don’t forget to pack some sunglasses if you have them.
- Satnav and printed route: Make sure you also have a satnav and potentially even a printed route of your journey.
- What3Words: Make sure your phone has the What3Words app installed. This can really help pinpoint your location in the worst scenarios so that people can find you.
- Chaged mobile phone: A fully charged mobile phone and a power bank are crucial for emergency communication.
- Car fluid levels: Monitoring fluid levels, including coolant and windshield washer fluid, is also essential, as cold temperatures can affect these vital vehicle components.
Stock Up on Non-Perishable Food and Water
In the face of adverse weather conditions and potential breakdowns, it’s important not to overlook sustenance:
- Non-Perishable Snacks: Foods such as granola bars, nuts, or dried fruits provide essential energy if you become stranded.
- Bottled Water: Staying hydrated is crucial, even in cold weather. Keep a supply in your car for several hours.
Stocking up on these items ensures you remain safe and comfortable while waiting for help. In extreme weather conditions, having these essentials can provide much-needed relief and peace of mind.
By equipping your vehicle accordingly and maintaining awareness of road conditions through traffic reports, you prepare to handle winter driving challenges with caution and confidence.
Take plenty of time to prepare and pack, as thoroughness in your winter setup can turn a challenging situation into a manageable one.
Understand Driving Techniques in Winter Conditions
Winter driving demands special attention and adaptation.
As temperatures drop and weather changes, recognizing that roads transform in ways that can challenge even the most experienced drivers is key.
Adjusting your driving style to cater to these conditions enhances safety and ensures that your journey, whether short or long, remains as stress-free as possible.
Here are some thoughtful tips and techniques to navigate through wintery conditions with care:
Maintain Safe Distances from Other Vehicles
One of the most fundamental aspects of winter driving is maintaining safe distances between your vehicle and others on the road.
Stopping distances can increase to ten times longer on icy roads, emphasizing the need for greater caution and space.
Allocating plenty of time for your journey allows for a slower, more considered pace, thus reducing the temptation to close gaps between vehicles.
The anticipation of the road and the actions of other drivers is crucial; this foresight allows you to maintain a safe braking distance, which is particularly important when climbing slopes or navigating potential hazards.
Use Higher Gears When Necessary
Winter conditions often require adjustments in gear usage to maintain optimal control.
In snowy or icy conditions, driving in a higher gear can help keep the vehicle stable. For instance, starting off in second gear can offer more grip and reduce the risk of wheel spin.
Keeping the car in a higher gear with lower revs prevents skidding. Using the designated snow or winter gearbox mode for those with automatic vehicles can enhance driving comfort and safety, providing better traction on slippery surfaces.
Accelerating gently in higher gear maintains traction and keeps the vehicle steady.
Recognise Signs of Black Ice
Black ice poses a particularly stealthy hazard due to its near-invisible nature.
Driving slowly and steadily, particularly in freezing conditions, is essential to mitigate the risks of black ice.
The danger of encountering black ice increases during freezing rain; hence, it’s prudent to keep a safe distance and reduce speed, even when the roads appear clear.
If your vehicle encounters black ice and you lose control, it’s essential to keep both hands on the wheel and steer into the skid to regain control. Driving off in second gear can also be beneficial to avoid skidding on these treacherous surfaces.
Enhance Traction with Winter Accessories
Navigating winter roads requires careful preparation and the right equipment to ensure safety and performance.
As temperatures drop and roads become slippery, enhancing your vehicle’s traction with appropriate accessories becomes crucial.
The right choice can significantly improve driving safety in snowy and icy conditions. Below, we explore various options to enhance traction during the winter months.
Consider Using Winter Tyres
Winter tyres are specifically engineered to tackle the challenges of cold weather and icy roads. These tyres are designed to function best at temperatures of 7°C and below, where standard tyres may falter.
The specialised tread patterns and rubber compounds of winter tyres can reduce a vehicle’s stopping distance by up to 40% on snow and ice, providing a significant safety advantage.
Investing in winter tyres is advisable for drivers regularly travelling on roads that are not frequently gritted.
The improved grip and resistance to aquaplaning make them a vital component of winter driving safety. It’s essential to replace all four tyres to maintain a uniform grip and avoid mixing different types of tyres, which can create dangerous driving conditions.
All-season tyres can serve as a versatile alternative for those not opting for winter tyres by providing year-round performance.
Explore the Use of Snow Socks
Snow socks offer a practical and cost-effective solution for drivers facing unexpected snow. These fabric-based devices slip over your tyres, enhancing grip on snowy surfaces.
They’re handy for handling sudden icy conditions, like navigating back roads or getting out of a snow-covered driveway. One of the main advantages of snow socks is their ease of installation compared to snow chains.
However, removing snow socks once you’ve cleared the snowy patches is crucial since they’re not built for dry roads. While not suited for intense snow, snow socks provide a handy traction boost when conditions take you by surprise, acting as a convenient temporary measure until the road conditions improve.
Learn When to Use Snow Chains
Snow chains represent the pinnacle of traction aids, ideal for dealing with significant snow accumulations. They should be used only on compacted snow and removed promptly when reaching clearer roads to prevent damage to your vehicle and the road surface.
In some European countries, it’s mandatory to carry snow chains during winter months, especially if you are planning skiing trips or driving in mountainous regions.
Fitting snow chains can be crucial in remote or hilly areas, helping drivers avoid getting stranded in inclement weather.
Ensure you check the fitment closely; there should be adequate clearance between the wheel arch and the tyre, and the chains should not interfere with electronic tyre sensors.
It’s always wise to familiarize yourself with local regulations and recommendations regarding snow chain use, as requirements vary by region.
Clear Your Vehicle Before Departing
Winter driving requires a thoughtful approach to ensure safety not only for yourself but also for others on the road. Before hitting the road, it is crucial to ensure your vehicle is prepared for adverse weather conditions.
Remove Snow and Ice from the Roof, Windows, and Lights
One of the most critical steps before setting off on your journey in wintery conditions is to clear the snow and ice from your vehicle. Removing all snow from the roof is essential to prevent it from sliding onto your windscreen while driving.
Ensure all windows and mirrors are free from ice and condensation to maintain maximum visibility.
Never use boiling water to de-ice your windscreen, as the sudden temperature change can crack the glass and cause further freezing.
Before beginning your journey, check that all your lights are clear of snow and operational so that they stay visible to other drivers. Carrying essentials like an ice scraper or de-icer is advisable for effective snow or ice removal.
Ensure Visibility is Unobstructed
Visibility is paramount when navigating icy roads or during heavy snowfalls. Before starting your trip, ensure all your car lights, including front and rear, are clean and fully functional.
Poor visibility leads to dangerous road conditions, so wearing dipped headlights during the day in bad conditions like rain, fog, or snow will keep you visible. Also, always turn off rear fog lights when conditions improve to avoid dazzling other drivers.
Legally, ensure that your number plate is free from snow and easily visible, as obscured plates can lead to fines. In extreme conditions, having your lights on is not just a legal requirement but a pivotal safety measure.
Stay Calm and Focused on the Road
Navigating the treacherous winter conditions requires both composure and attentiveness. Maintaining a safe following distance is crucial to allow ample stopping time, helping to prevent accidents.
If you find yourself behind a snow plough, exercise caution and maintain a safe distance, as these vehicles travel slowly and may make sudden stops or wide turns.
In emergencies during wintry weather, staying with your vehicle is recommended. Signal for help using bright markers and run the engine sparingly to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Keeping calm and aware of your surroundings can help you regain control in adverse weather conditions. Regularly checking weather forecasts and adjusting your travel plans can drastically reduce risks associated with driving in challenging conditions.
Avoid Sudden Movements
Gentle manoeuvres and slow speeds are essential when driving on icy and snowy roads. Abrupt movements increase the risk of losing control.
If your vehicle begins to lose grip while turning, remember to slow down and keep the wheels pointed in the direction you wish to go.
Use gentle pressure when braking on icy roads to avoid wheel lock-up, which can lead to sliding. Maintain a larger distance between your vehicle and the one in front, as stopping distances can be significantly longer in these conditions.
When driving in snow, it’s advisable to remain in higher gear with lower revs to maintain traction and control. By adhering to these strategies, you can navigate wintery conditions more safely.
Be Prepared for Unforeseen Situations
Preparing for the unexpected is key to safe winter driving. Assemble a winter emergency kit with essentials like blankets, a flashlight, non-perishable food, and first aid supplies.
Equip your car with necessary tools such as a shovel, de-icer, ice scraper, and a warning triangle to handle potential breakdowns or obstacles caused by winter weather.
Always carry a charged mobile phone with the contact number of your breakdown provider saved. Including a hi-vis vest in your emergency kit will ensure visibility if you exit your vehicle in hazardous conditions.
Prepare for every eventuality by packing items such as a demisting pad, extra screenwash, and a small carpet square to help gain traction if stuck in the snow. With these precautions in place, you will be well-equipped to handle any challenges winter driving throws your way.
Emergency Breakdown Kit Essentials
Winter driving can present a set of challenges unique to the colder months. Preparing for the unexpected with a well-stocked emergency breakdown kit is crucial for your safety and comfort when road conditions turn treacherous.
Let’s explore some essential components every driver should consider.
List of Must-Have Items for Emergencies
When assembling an emergency kit, consider items that will keep you warm, safe, and connected during a breakdown.
Here’s a helpful list to get you started (some of which you’ll notice we’ve already discussed in this article):
- Blanket: A good quality blanket can be a lifesaver in keeping you warm when your car’s heater isn’t available. This is particularly important in severe cold weather.
- Fully Charged Mobile Phone: A charged phone is essential for calling for assistance and can make a huge difference if you find yourself stranded.
- Non-Perishable Snacks: Items like nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit will help maintain your energy levels while waiting for help, especially in adverse weather conditions.
- Torch with Spare Batteries: A flashlight provides crucial light in the dark and can be used to signal for help.
- First Aid Kit: Ensure your kit contains essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and other items to treat minor injuries.
- A high-visibility jacket or Vest: This jacket or vest increases your visibility to other drivers when exiting your vehicle in low-light or foggy conditions.
- Jumper Cables: Useful in case of a dead battery, a common cold-weather issue.
- Snow Shovel and Abrasive Material: A small shovel and sand or kitty litter can help free your vehicle from snow and icy patches.
- Warning Devices: Items such as warning triangles and flares are crucial to signal distress and alert other vehicles.
Importance of Regularly Checking Your Kit
Having a comprehensive emergency kit is a good start, but regular maintenance ensures its effectiveness:
- Regular Inspections: Periodically check that all items are intact and functional. This includes ensuring your ice scraper, de-icer, and torch are working.
- Mobile Phone and Power Bank: Maintain both at an ample charge to ensure you can communicate during emergencies.
- Replenishing Supplies: Routinely verify the freshness of food items and the completeness of the first aid kit, replacing anything used or expired.
- Safety Enhancements: Evaluate your kit to include additional safety items if needed, which will provide comfort and safety during extended waits in the cold.
Common Winter Driving Questions
Here’s a collection of frequently asked winter driving questions:
How to drive in winter
Prepare for winter driving by checking tyres (3mm tread), batteries, antifreeze, and screen wash. Drive slowly, keep 10-second gaps, brake gently, and use high gears on ice. Steer into skids and avoid sudden moves. Use fog lights only in poor visibility. Clear snow/ice from windows and lights before driving (legal requirement). Carry an emergency kit and avoid unnecessary travel in severe weather. Stay updated on forecasts and plan routes carefully.
Why winter tyres?
Winter tyres offer better grip, handling, and braking in cold, wet, icy, or snowy conditions. They use softer rubber and deeper tread to maintain traction below 7°C, reducing skidding risks. While not mandatory in the UK, they improve safety and performance in winter weather, especially on untreated roads. They are ideal for those in rural or icy areas or who frequently drive in severe conditions.
Which winter tyres are best?
The best winter tyres depend on your car and driving conditions. Top brands like Michelin, Continental, Bridgestone, and Goodyear offer excellent options. Look for tyres with the “3 Peak Mountain Snowflake” symbol for certified winter performance. Popular choices include Michelin Alpin, Continental WinterContact, and Goodyear UltraGrip. Check reviews and your car’s specifications, and consider your typical weather and road conditions when choosing.
Tips for driving in snow for the first time
Drive slowly and smoothly in the snow, using gentle steering and braking to avoid skidding. Start in second gear to reduce wheel spin, keep a 10-second gap from other vehicles, and brake early. Stick to main roads, as they’re more likely to be gritted. Carry essentials like a scraper, de-icer, and a blanket. If skidding, steer into it and ease off the accelerator. Plan your route and check weather updates before setting off.
Why won’t my car start in the cold?
Cold weather can cause your car to not start due to a weak battery, thickened engine oil, or frozen fuel lines. Batteries lose power in low temperatures, making it harder to crank the engine. Moisture in the fuel system can freeze, blocking the flow. Ensure your battery is charged, use the correct oil, and keep fuel levels above half. Consider a battery warmer or fuel additive if issues persist.
What should I do if I break down?
If you break down in winter, stay safe by pulling over, turning on hazard lights, and wearing a high-vis jacket. Stay in the car if it’s unsafe outside, and call for roadside assistance. Keep warm with blankets, and conserve fuel by running the engine sparingly. Carry essentials like a phone charger, snacks, water, and a torch. Let someone know your location and avoid walking far in severe weather.
How can I demist my screen quickly?
To demist your screen quickly, turn on the car’s heater and set it to the windscreen. Use the air conditioning to reduce humidity and open windows slightly for ventilation. If available, use the car’s demist button. Wipe the screen with a clean cloth if needed, but avoid smearing. Ensure the inside of your windscreen is clean for faster results.
A Summary of Winter Driving Tips
The article emphasises the significant impact that winter weather has on transport services, particularly about driving for work.
It highlights how adverse weather conditions—such as rain, hail, fog, snow, high winds, and low winter sun—can greatly increase the hazards associated with driving.
Shorter days and reduced visibility also pose additional risks for drivers.
Employers and transport operators are urged to review and update their emergency arrangements to ensure that employees are well-prepared for potential incidents such as collisions, breakdowns, or getting stuck.
A thorough risk assessment is recommended to support safe driving practices and reduce the likelihood of accidents, thereby also safeguarding emergency responders.
To mitigate risks during winter, the article advises against undertaking journeys in inclement weather and underscores the importance of maintaining safe vehicles and well-informed drivers.
It further suggests equipping vehicles with essential winter driving gear, such as winter tyres, snow socks, or snow chains, depending on the expected conditions.
Additional considerations for electric vehicles (EVs) include understanding the reduced battery efficiency in cold weather, preconditioning vehicles while charging, and planning multiple charging stops to accommodate longer travel times.
This article on winter driving tips stresses that proactive measures and safety culture are essential for ensuring safe transport services during the winter months, whether you operate transport services or are just going for a winter drive. Always be prepared.
