Winter driving can be dangerous, expensive and tiring. It seems that during the winter when you get in your car its dark, and when you get out of it its even darker. We are here though to make your driving experience this winter just that little bit easier, and keep you safe and happy on the roads.
Risk of snow and ice this winter means its time to get clued up.
1. Be Prepared
Make sure you are carrying the essentials in your vehicle, especially during winter. The majority of European countries do this as though its part of the norm, however us Brits seem to neglect driving with the essentials in tow. Make sure you are carrying:
- De-icer: Everyone’s winter favourite which saves you some valuable elbow grease
- Blanket: You never know when a breakdown may occur and your battery run flat
- Torch: Winter brings with it dark nights that set on early so make sure you can see a problem under the bonnet
- In car mobile charger: This could be a valuable investment, especially if you find yourself in an icy situation
- Tyre Pump: that ‘just in case’ essential that could save you a long roadside wait
2. Check your tyres
Tyre pressure is vitally important during winter as the incorrect pressure can compromise tyre design, meaning your not getting the most out of them. Tyres are your connection between the road and your vehicle so make sure you look after them so they can look after you.
3. Look after your battery
With all that extra work your battery has to do during winter, be sure to make sure you look after it! A flat battery could spell disaster during a long journey and a long roadside wait. Make sure you give you battery a run out at least once a week so it can cope with that extra pressure. If its been a while since you battery was replaced take it to a local garage who will most likely test it for free.
4. Service time
Winter is a great time to get your car serviced to make sure you are well and truly prepared. Its also a great way of checking that your vehicle is topped up with anti-freeze and coolant.
5. Driving on ice
Black ice can be a real pain during winter, and cause unnecessary accidents due to careless driving. Make sure you take extra caution on journeys and always allow that little extra so you aren’t feeling rushed.