As we all know, the weather in Britain can be unpredictable to say the least, so if you or your drivers need to take to the road over the winter season, make sure you are prepared for the road conditions. Follow these tips for safer driving during difficult winter conditions.
SNOW OR ICE
Allow plenty of room to slow down it can take up to ten times as long to stop when roads are icy
Avoid sudden braking, any sharp turns or increases in speed
Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin and to prevent losing control of your vehicle
For braking without skidding, get into a lower gear earlier, let your speed go down, and then brake gently
If you do start to skid take your foot off the accelerator do not brake suddenly
Be aware when driving round bends that are sheltered from the sun this is where black ice is likely to be
A telltale clue that you are on black ice: all goes quiet in the car and you can't hear any tyre noise
FOG
Ensure that you drive slowly and use dipped headlights so that other vehicles can see you
If visibility is seriously reduced, use fog lights, but be sure to switch them off when visibility improves!
Dont drive too close behind another vehicle as a way to follow their rear lights this will do nothing but give you a false sense of security
RAIN
Keep well back from the vehicle in front of you it can take up to twice as long to stop when roads are wet rather than dry
Keeping well back will also reduce the likelihood of being caught up in spray, which can dangerously impair your visibility
If your tyres do lose grip and aquaplane take your foot off the accelerator and slow down do not put your foot on the brake
FLOODS
Dont attempt to cross floods if water appears too deep if water goes into the engine it may cause it to fail
If you need to drive through a flood, drive slowly in first gear in order to avoid stalling the engine
Keep the engine revs high and slip the clutch if necessary
Take note that the deepest water is usually nearest to the kerb so keep away from this area of the road
As soon as you have been through a flood TEST YOUR BRAKES, and only drive on if they are fine
And finally, low Winter Sun can cause dangerous dazzle, so make sure that your windscreen is completely clean and wear sunglasses to help with the glare.
Safe driving!
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