Winter Driving
Driving in adverse winter conditions is more difficult if you and your
car aren't properly prepared. By
following these simple guidelines from the Institute of Advanced Motorists
(IAM) you will be safer and
ready to deal with winter driving problems.
-
Is your journey really necessary? If it is, plan it and give yourself
plenty of time. Tell someone your intended route and how long you think
it's going to take. Listen to the radio for details about road and weather
conditions.
-
Clean the windscreen and windows using a demisting preparation.
Check that screen washers are not blocked and that the screen washer bottle
is topped up and has a winter additive to stop it freezing. Check that
the windscreen wipers are in good condition and work effectively.
-
Ensure that all lights, brake lights, indicators are working properly
and the lenses are clean.
-
Ensure that the tyres are in good condition and are properly inflated.
Carry the following in your vehicle:- Warning triangle. Hands free mobile
phone. Warm coat. First aid
kit. Good torch. Seat belt cutter. Fire extinguisher. Travel rug. Tow
rope. Bottled drinking water.
Recovery service contact number. Good map. Pen and paper.
Adverse weather and road conditions bring an increased risk of skidding.
A skid does not just happen
- it is almost always caused by the driver's actions.
-
Keep your speed down and increase your safety gaps when the road is wet
or icy.
-
Braking, steering, acceleration, decelerating and gear changing must be
done gently and gradually.
-
If a skid occurs, no matter how strong the temptation, do not brake! Lose
speed by gently easing the pressure on the accelerator pedal and, if appropriate,
de-clutch.
This article is from The
IAM Fact Sheeet 9001.
Cold Weather Driving and Skid Control
For Advice on Cold Weather Driving and Skid Control - click here
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