Driving Safely in Winter Weather – Top Tips

Date: 16 December 2023

Be prepared before you travel

Check the weather forecasts and traffic warnings
Plan your route – use major roads that are more likely to be cleared of ice and snow, allow extra time to get to your destination, factor in regular breaks if you have a long journey
Check your petrol and don’t risk driving with a low amount, in case of delays
Clear snow from the car roof, so that it doesn’t fall onto the windscreen
Ensure your windscreen is clear of snow, ice and is fully demisted
Don’t drive if you’re unwell or taking medicine that could make you drowsy
Don’t drink alcohol and drive – be aware if you’ve been drinking alcohol the night before, you may not be sober enough to drive the next morning
Ensure the car lights are working
Check and top up anti-freeze
Check and top up your screenwash
Ensure you have the essentials in your car:
Ice scraper and de-icer
Fully charged mobile/charger
Torch/spare batteries
Details of your breakdown service provider

Also consider taking:

Tips for driving safely

Drive slowly; stopping distances can be 10 times longer when it’s icy
Pull away in second gear – gently, to avoid wheel-spin
If you use your brakes, apply them gently
Leave plenty of room between other cars
When driving uphill, leave plenty of room in front so you can maintain a constant speed without the need for changing gear
When driving downhill use a low gear and try to avoid braking

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