Top tips for safer driving in wintery conditions
Published on: November 12, 2024
Published on: November 12, 2024
Our friends at Covea recently reported that on average, drivers are 25% more likely to make a claim during the months of November to February. This statistic doesn’t even take into consideration periods of bad weather, where this shoots up to 33%.
As you’ll be aware, claims made against your vehicle insurance policy usually mean one thing; a significant price increase come renewal. No one likes paying more than they need to for their insurance. That’s why it’s important to take precautions and adapt your driving to match these more perilous conditions. Don’t forget that some conditions such as black ice aren’t even easily visible, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution.
Check the route you will be taking before you set off, watching out for traffic updates to avoid delays. Keep to main roads as they will have more chance of having been gritted. Leave early to avoid rushing and plan frequent rest breaks when taking longer journeys.
As well as your usual vehicle upkeep, make sure your wiper blades are in good working order, clean your headlights and number plate, check your tyre treads (min 3mm) and ensure tyres have sufficient air (ignore the dangerous myth of needing less air in winter).
Always have essentials in the car as you never know when you might get into difficulty. Your kit should include an ice scraper, torch, batteries, first aid kit, emergency phone charger, warm clothes, footwear, drinks, snacks, jump leads and a warning triangle.
Make sure you have plenty of fuel, even for short journeys as there is always a chance you may get delayed or need to make a detour. Use additive in your screenwash to prevent freezing and you should use a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water in your coolant.
Before you depart, de-ice your car and allow condensation to clear as it is illegal to drive if your visibility is impaired. Cold air usually demists quicker than hot air. You should also clear snow off your car roof as this can fall and obstruct your view while driving.
Leave extra space between vehicles as stopping distances can be 10 times longer in icy conditions. Brake more gently and drive slowly on hills, reducing your speed before you start descending to avoid heavy braking on the hill itself. Use your car’s winter mode if it has one.
