With the weather getting colder and darker, driving becomes more hazardous. Sometimes conditions can be extreme with prolonged periods of snow and floods.
Different weather conditions can create different hazards. A single journey can take you into very different weather, road, and traffic conditions. With that said, you need to be prepared for each one and to adapt the way you drive in those conditions.
If the weather condition is extremely bad and you feel uneasy about driving, avoid driving completely unless you absolutely have to make the journey and driving is the only option.
Check your vehicle
It is best to have your vehicle fully serviced before winter starts and have the anti-freeze tested. If you are unable to have it serviced, then do your own checks:
- Ensure that the lights are clean and working
- Battery is fully changed
- Windscreen, wiper blades, and other windows are clean, and the washer bottle is filled with screen wash
- Check your tyres conditions, the tread depth and pressure
- Test your brakes and make sure they are working well
Winter driving tips
- Avoid driving if you feel tired, getting the proper amount of rest before taking on winter weather tasks reduces driving risks
- Do not warm up your vehicle in an enclosed area such as a garage
- Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface such as wet road or ice
- Make sure you are always using your seatbelt
- Keep your vehicle well ventilated
- Prepare for your journey. Listen to weather broadcasts and make sure that it is safe. Weather conditions can change rapidly, check them regularly and be prepared to change your plans if the conditions worsen.