If it’s beginning to look a lot like winter and you’re digging out your winter woolies, then it’s time to think about the risks associated with winter driving.
A clear, frosty and sunny morning may look glorious through the window but the low winter sun can be a hazard. The low angle of the sun can make visibility a real problem. It might sound rather obvious, but remember to keep both the inside and outside of the windscreen clean – it will really make a difference to your visibility when the sun shines. Also, slow down if the sun is in your eyes.
We all prepare to some extent for the cold weather, whether it’s a boiler service or changing the tyres on your car. Here are some other things to consider for winter driving:
- Check that your lights are clean and the car battery is fully charged;
- Check windows are clean, both on the inside and outside;
- Make sure your brakes are working well and the tyre pressure is correct; and
- Check that everything is topped-up – oil, anti-freeze and windscreen wash.
Our weather in the UK can be unpredictable so don’t get caught out. Why not keep some simple kit in your car during the winter months including a warm coat or blanket, a snow shovel, wellies, a hazard warning triangle (many cars have these included), a torch and a first aid kit. Simple but effective!
If you are travelling far, for an essential cause, use your common sense – have plenty of fuel, keep your mobile phone fully charged and let someone know where you are going and when you expect to arrive.
Driving in snow
It might be a good time to consider how experienced you are in terms of driving in snow. The general advice offered is to adapt your driving to the weather conditions. Slow down, remember your stopping distances, avoid harsh braking and acceleration.
Getting stuck in snow can be a real pain. Trying to power out is not the best option; instead try to rock your car back and forth gently using a high gear. If this doesn’t work you might need someone to give you a push or get that snow shovel out and start digging.
Rain
I’m sure we are all experienced at driving in the rain, but remember it requires twice the normal braking distance; be aware of your stopping distance.
Fog
There are clearly lots of factors that influence driving conditions but we’d also like to mention fog. Here are a few tips to consider:
- Switch on your headlights/fog lights if visibility is reduced;
- If you can see a car behind you, they can see you and your rear fog lights could be dazzling them. Switch them off when visibility improves;
- Rear lights of the car in front of you can sometimes provide a false sense of security, be careful not to get too close; and
- Fog can be patchy so be careful not to speed up as soon as visibility improves slightly, you could find yourself in thick fog again very quickly.
Safe Driving!
For more information/advice on driving safely visit https://www.gov.uk/vehicle-maintenance-safety-securityor the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents
For more information on our OH&S services, give us a call on +44 (0)141 288 0181 or email info@amalgamate-safety.com.