This winter we are providing you with tips and tricks to help you, and your vehicle, prepare for the winter months.
Last week we provided you with some of the best ways to prepare your vehicle for the cold months.
This week’s post explains how to prepare for and drive in snow. It is predicted that many areas of the UK will get snowfall during December/January (according to the UK weather Forecast Website), and therefore it is vital that you are ready for what is to come.
When driving in snow take these tips into account:
1. Accelerate gently and DON’T speed. Use low revs and change up to a higher gear as quickly as possible. You may need to move off in second gear as this will help reduce wheel slip.
2. Always leave a large gap between you and the car in front (larger than usual). This means if anyone has to brake abruptly (or if anyone skids), you are less likely to collide.
3. If you do encounter a skid, steer gently into it. Do not take your hands off the steering wheel or stamp your foot on the brakes as this can cause you to skid!
4. If the road has not been gritted be aware of ‘black ice’. It is also advised not to drive in the wheel tracks of other vehicles because compressed snow is likely to be icier than fresh snow.
5. Braking, steering, changing gear and accelerating should be carried out smoothly and slowly.
6. Sunglasses can help to reduce the glare of the sun from the snow/ice.
7. Stay alert and keep your speed down to allow for time to stop and steer.
The Department of Transport put together statistics from 2012 which show that38 people were killed, 544 were seriously injured and 4,584 were slightly injured in reported road accidents on UK roads when there was snow or ice on the road surface. Don’t be one of these statistics! Keep following our blog for more Winter Road Safety Tips.
Next week we will explain the best ways to keep yourself safe in icy conditions and hail.