Fortunately driving in the snow is not something UK residents have to worry about too often. But when the snow comes the nation falls apart! So how can you prepare for severe weather conditions?
Insurance
With more hazards on the road than usual it is important that you check you’re insured. If you are insured make sure you’re covered for extreme weather conditions as this is not always the case. And if you need car insurance contact our car insurance team for a quote 0800 970 1400.
Be Prepared
When the snow alerts start prepare by packing these essential items;
- De-icer and ice scraper
- Blanket
- Boots
- First aid kit
- Jump leads
- Shovel
- Warning sign
Do your checks
Here are a few quick car checks that should be done before driving in the snow. Firstly check the lights. The last thing you want is to be driving on a foggy road and realise your lights are out.
In the morning remove all snow from your vehicle including the bonnet and roof. This way when you’re breaking you won’t be blinded by snow on the window.
After removing the snow if the windows are frosty then save yourself time; purchase Deicer and a scraper. If you find yourself with no Deicer then use warm water NEVER boiling!
Remember to check oil and water regularly ensuring there’s enough for the journey. Don’t forget that anti freeze – which will ensure water does not freeze.
Finally check tyres are at the recommended tread depth of 3mm. For tyre pressure information please check your handbook.
Plan your journeys
In the winter it is important to plan your journeys, when you know where you’re heading it’s easier to prepare. You can check the local weather, search for traffic updates and let people know where you’ll be in case of emergency.
There are plenty of useful apps to help you plan your journey and the weather can be checked on MetOffice.
Driving in the snow
It’s important to take extra care when driving in the snow. Here are our top tips;
- Accelerate gently using low revs
- Start in second gear to reduce wheel spins
- Leave up to 10 times the gap between the car in front
- If you skid – steer into it
- Take care when steering, braking and accelerating
- Keep speed down, allowing time to steer and operate
Now you’re ready to go, take care and drive carefully!
