TOP ADVERSE WEATHER DRIVING TIPS
It’s been widely forecast that rain and high winds will hit the UK this week, which is set to create dangerous and challenging conditions on Britain’s roads. Even moderate changes, such as high winds and rain, can make it difficult, and with some areas predicted to reach winds as high as 50mph on Friday, even the most competent drivers need to be aware of the potential hazards and take steps to navigate these.
To aid drivers, experts from CarStore, the new way to buy, sell or service a used vehicle, have compiled a list of the top five winter weather driving tips to follow for keeping safe on the roads:
PLAN YOUR ROUTE
As much as you might enjoy driving through more scenic country lanes and rural areas, when the weather takes a turn for the worse it is a much better idea to keep to bigger roads and more popular routes, since these are less likely to be so severely impacted by the worst conditions and also benefit from the most attention from highways agencies.
You should also allow extra time to reach your destination in such circumstances, particularly when visibility is poor, so you may be required to drive at slower speeds or face unexpected complications along the way.
If in doubt, look online or on social media for news and updates about road closures or perilous conditions in your area and plan accordingly in order to minimise any risk to you and your vehicle.
PREPARE YOUR CAR
It is very important that before you even set out on the road, you ensure your car is prepared for winter weather, not only for your safety but other road users’ safety too.
Follow our advice and complete our checks below for hassle-free winter driving:
Tyre tread depth – at least 3mm is recommended during winter
Tyre pressure
Fluid levels such as oil, screenwash and anti-freeze
Exterior lights
Battery – The AA confirms battery issues are the most common cause of call-outs in the winter months
Winter essential pack – shovel, torch, Hi-Vis jacket, blanket, extra layers of clothing, sturdy footwear, scraper, screenwash and refreshments
Fully clear all windows and mirrors of ice/snow
Scrape snow off the roof of your vehicle
And, of course, if you have any questions or concerns about the condition of your vehicle, always speak to an expert before driving. At CarStore, for example, customers can benefit from affordable servicing and repairs, and experienced teams of technicians will perform vehicle health checks to ensure that they’re safe and roadworthy.
DRIVING IN RAIN AND FLOODS
It’s not just snow and ice that drivers need to be cautious around as heavy and torrential rain can be just as dangerous. Rain and spray from the road can significantly impair visibility of the road ahead and vehicles around you. You should always maintain a good distance from the vehicle in front of you in such circumstances as it can take longer to stop should you need to.
A further issue to be aware of is unresponsive steering, when there is a lot of surface water preventing your tyres from gripping to the road. In such instances, you should ease off the accelerator and gradually slow down.
If you do come across a flooded route, never attempt to cross if you’re unsure of the depth of the water. Driving through deep water can damage your vehicle and is a cause of many written-off vehicles.
DRIVING IN THE SNOW AND ICE
Regardless of what vehicle you drive, driving in the snow and ice can be extremely dangerous. Whilst some are better suited to such conditions than others, no vehicle is impervious to the perils of the most hazardous weather.
The most important tip to keep front of mind when faced with snow or ice is to allow sufficient time for your journey. Driving at fast speeds and rushing is a sure-fire route to disaster. Limit the amount of pressure you put on the accelerator when moving off to limit wheel spinning and do so in second gear, to avoid spinning.
Always leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front and, when travelling downhill, you should keep your vehicle in a low gear to avoid needing to regularly use your brakes.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU GET STUCK IN THE SNOW?
Most importantly, don’t panic! As a first step, don’t rev your engine constantly as this will only spin your wheels and deepen any rut you are stuck in, worsening the situation. Instead, try placing a car mat under the wheels of your vehicle to give your tyres more traction, or you could use some grit if there is some nearby.
After this, you should gently move the car backwards and forwards in a steady rocking motion, using the highest gear possible – and if this isn’t successful, see if you can get the help of any people around you to give your vehicle a push.
And if you still have difficulties after trying these steps first, then we recommend that you call a recovery service.
MAKING SURE YOUR CAR IS READY FOR FACING WINTRY CONDITIONS
“Every driver needs to be aware of the dangers of driving in wintry conditions and ensure that they are fully prepared before setting out on the road,” says Mark Akbar, Pendragon Managing Director, behind the launch of CarStore. “Any vehicle, regardless of make, model or age, can be tested by the unpredictable British weather, so, we recommend that drivers follow these top tips for their safety, and of those around them.
“At CarStore, we offer our customers vehicle health checks and both minor and major services to give drivers ultimate peace of mind and confidence that their vehicle is safe for tackling these challenging conditions.”
The new, relaunched CarStore makes the process of buying, selling or servicing a used vehicle easier and more accessible for all, by allowing prospective buyers to make that journey online, over the phone, in-person at CarStore Experience Centres nationwide, or any combination thereof.
