Driving in Winter

Driving in ice and snow is obviously more dangerous than in warmer conditions. We know the advice is only to drive if absolutely necessary when it’s icy, but we often find we need to go out despite the weather. So what do we need to know before starting the car on a freezing winters day? The first thing is good preparation. Make sure your car is safe and ready to drive. You need good, all round visibility, so make sure all of your windows and mirrors have been thoroughly de-iced. You also need to clear your lights and number plates, as it’s important to be visible to others as well as being able to see clearly. Clear any snow from the roof of your car, as this could fly off and obscure your vision or hit another road user when you’re moving.

Prepare

It is a very good idea to have checked your route for any problems, and the weather forecast just in case there’s snow on the way. You might be safer with a different route, if bus routes have been well gritted but the back roads haven’t stick to the larger roads. You should also keep winter essentials in your car, these should include a blanket, some snacks, a torch, first aid kit, ice scraper, shovel and add a hot drink in a flask when you’re about to leave. You’ll be glad you have these if you get stuck somewhere.

On the move

Once you’re on the move try to make sure you stay well back from other cars, your stopping distance may be greater than you expect. If you’re aware the road is icy you need to drive slowly in as high a gear as possible, and avoid any sudden movements. Use your peddles very gently, and don’t steer violently. Make sure you slow right down before you reach corners, as if you’re going too fast you may come off the road.

Winter conditions can be a bit of a challenge, but with a bit of care and preparation you should stay safe! If your car has broken down or had a bump due to the cold, and you need to get back to teaching people to drive why not hire a dual control car from us?