Driving can be a dangerous affair at the best of times but with the temperature plummeting below 0 and snow on the ground driving can become even more hazardous.
It is advised that you avoid travelling in these conditions all together, unless it is absolutely necessary.
Of course, we know this isn’t necessarily practical. If you do need to venture outside we want you to have the safest journey possible, which is why we are sharing the best advice for driving in snowy conditions below.
Remember, if you do have the day off. Enjoy it! Throw a snowball, build a igloo, go sledging, then sit down with a steaming cup of hot chocolate and order a dash cam 😉
- Preparing for the journey- Before travelling you should ensure that all snow is cleared from the windscreen, mirrors, bonnet and roof! This is to ensure you have an unobstructed view of the road but also to prevent the snow on you car flying off to blind other road users.
- Vehicle checks- Checking the amount of thread left on your tyres is a must, the minimum for this weather is 3mm. Having at least a quarter of a tank of fuel is essential when driving in this weather as you do not know when you will next be able to fill up.
- Safety equipment- Since journeys can be longer than expected you should ensure you have the following items in your vehicle: shovel, torch, blanket, jump leads, tow rope as well as some water and munchies.
- Drive smoothly- Pull away gently, if using a manual start in second gear to prevent your wheels from spinning on the ice.
- When Driving- Slow down, you should drive at a speed that is appropriate for the conditions of the road. Stopping distances can increase by 10 times when there is snow or ice so remember to leave a greater distance between you and the car in front.
As previously mentioned, it is safer not to travel in these conditions. But if you are heading out for a drive please follow the above advice to ensure that you are as prepared for your trip as possible allowing for a safer journey.