When it comes to winter driving, the most important thing is for you to feel safe on the roads. No matter whether you’re driving in the rain, snow, fog or wind - it’s crucial to know how you can prepare, so that you can keep yourself and other passengers safe.
To help you out, we’ve put together this guide for driving in adverse weather conditions to ensure that you can navigate the roads as safely as possible.
Stopping distances in rain will at least double compared to stopping on dry roads. This is because your tyres have less grip on the road, so you need to take extra precautions.
When your tyres aren’t gripping the road properly, you can struggle to steer which is known as aquaplaning. If this happens, don’t hit the brakes hard. Instead, gently ease off the accelerator and hold the steering wheel straight. As you start to regain control, begin to brake to bring the speed down.
In general, when driving in the rain you should keep well back from the vehicle in front. This will allow you to keep the best visibility possible and be prepared for any sudden stops.
Where possible, you should try to avoid driving in the snow and when the roads are icy. Highways England and local authorities will do their best to treat the roads during severe weather, but not every road can be treated. You should take care, even if the roads have been treated and keep well back from other vehicles as stopping distances in icy conditions can be ten times greater than on dry roads.
Take an emergency kit with a de-icer, ice scraper, torch and warm clothing with you if journeys are absolutely essential. You could also pack spare clothes and emergency food in case your vehicle breaks down.
As stated by rule 229 of the government icy and snowy weather rules, you must have all snow and ice removed from your windows, your lights must be clean and your number plates must be clearly visible.
Make sure to check the traffic news before travelling, as roads and bridges can get closed because of high winds. It’s mainly high-sided vehicles that are particularly affected by driving in the wind, but strong winds can blow other vehicles off course.
When it comes to what requires extra care when driving in windy conditions, you should take extra precautions when driving at high speeds or if driving a high-sided vehicle or motorcycle. Be vigilant at all times, keep an eye out for hazards on the road and continue to keep your distance from other vehicles.
Before entering fog, check your mirrors and slow down. Use your lights and stay well back from the vehicle in front. This is particularly important on motorways and dual carriageways where vehicles are travelling faster.
Fog is often patchy, so don’t speed up as soon as your visibility improves as you could suddenly find yourself surrounded by fog again further up the road. Again, be sure to look but also listen. It’s important to keep your wits about you. Use your de-misters and windscreen wipers to clear your vision if necessary. Be aware of your surroundings and other road users – including those who may not be using headlights.
Check your mirrors before you slow down and use your brake lights to warn drivers behind you that you are slowing down. Don’t use front or rear fog lights unless your visibility is seriously reduced otherwise you could risk dazzling other road users.
To make things easier, these are some general tips that you should abide by when driving throughout winter to keep yourself and others safe:
- Stay alert at all times
- Accelerate and decelerate slowly
- Check weather conditions before travelling
- Always allow extra time for driving in severe weather
- Check your lights, indicators, wipers and controls are all working before setting off
- On long journeys, take breaks at regular intervals
- Slow down before turning or on a bend
- Avoid stopping quickly
- Keep your distance from other vehicles
And those are our top tips for driving in adverse weather conditions. If you think your car needs to be looked over for any reason, you can arrange a car service at your nearest Eurorepar centre. Or, if you’re looking for more advice, you can contact us or check out our other blogs.
