Holiday season is around the corner, and that means plenty of winter driving. The winter period presents a number of challenges, with slippery conditions, poor visibility, and fog, rain, and darkness making it even more difficult.
Conditions can be challenging even on a regular commute, but as we get closer to the holidays, thousands of people will be on the roads so they can visit friends and family. And this time can be very stressful and hazardous if you’re not prepared.
Whether it’s going to be a short trip or a long one, you’ll need to do adequate planning and consider the tools you need to make sure your journey is as relaxing and safe as possible.
It’s essential that you have your car checked or serviced before you begin driving. This means you need to #TestYourTreads (check out www.tyreplus.co.uk), and ensure your antifreeze and oil are at the correct levels before you hit the road.
There are also a number of basic checks that you need complete before you drive. If it’s very cold, check that you have plenty of washer fluid and your windscreen wipers haven’t frozen. You’ll also need to give your headlights a quick check and ensure they’re clear of salt or snow.
While traditionally we were taught to keep our hands at 10-and-2, it turns out that 3-and-9 has been proven to be safer. This is because keeping your hands further apart will make your inputs more precise, particularly if you’re making emergency turns.
Modern vehicles have many different safety features designed to keep you and your family safe. But you also need to be aware when something isn’t right so you can quickly respond. For example, when you’re going too fast into a turn, cars are designs to slide and skid on the front end, which gives you the best chance to respond without fishtailing. The vehicle will tell you, the steering wheel will feel different, and your wheels will make a nasty noisy.
Above all, the best thing you can do is leave the house earlier than you need to. We all make mistakes when we’re stressed out or running late, so do everything you can to ensure you’re going to have a relaxing drive.
It sounds obvious, but the best thing you can do is drive to the conditions. Simple things like braking well before you need to turn, slowing down, and continually scanning your environment will help you stay safe. If you haven’t driven in winter for some time, it may also be worth taking a winter driving course.
These tips will help you be prepared to stay safe this winter. It’s no secret that the holidays can be a stressful time to travel, but if you follow the above tips, you’ll improve your chances of an excellent holiday road trip.