Richard Evans, spokesperson for UK’s go-to online car-buying service webuyanycar, advises:
“Driving in winter conditions can have a huge impact on our cars. The cold and icy conditions can not only be dangerous, but can also lead to accidental damage. Our research shows that half of drivers (50%) avoid driving in snowy weather, almost half (47%) avoid driving in icy weather, and around 1 in 5 (19%) avoid driving in stormy weather.
“Overall there are some key things that drivers should stay aware of and consider when getting around. Preparing yourself before any journey will keep you safer on the roads.
- Tyres: Tyre tread needs to be at least 3mm to provide drivers with the right amount of grip. And where possible it can be worth investing in some winter tyres or snow chains to help increase the cars grip on the road.
- Anti-freeze: Anti-freeze helps to make sure that your engine stays at a constant temperature so that it can operate when it is very hot or very cold outside. Making sure engine coolant is topped up will help stop the fluid freezing with a drop in temperature.
- Go easy on the brakes: When roads are icy, it can be common for cars to skid but it is important for drivers to stay calm, and not to panic and slam on the brakes. Instead, if they feel they are starting to skid they need to gently take their foot off the accelerator and let the car slow down naturally whilst steering into the skid to help straighten up naturally.
- Clear the whole windscreen: When the windscreen has frosted up, it can be tempting or easy to just clear the drivers side of the windscreen or drive off before it’s fully clear of fog. However, this can be very dangerous, and drivers need to ensure that the windscreen is fully clear to increase drivers visibility and keep people safe. .
- Keep supplies in the car: Having some essentials like ice scraper, torch, shovel, blanket, or extra clothes to stay warm can be useful to have if drivers end up breaking down.
“Our guide for winter driving will give drivers an overview of how to get around safely and prepare their cars for the weather.”
Featured Photo by Dennis Zhang on Unsplash.