Five tips to stay safe on the roads this winter

Winter plays havoc on our cars and most car repair garages see a huge influx of work as a result of more treacherous driving conditions. So here’s our Five tips to stay safe on the roads this winter

Darker mornings and evenings, coupled with freezing temperatures, can make driving more hazardous which means motorists need to take steps to negotiate these risks to protect themselves and other road users.

It is estimated that up to 48% of winter car accidents are the result of skidding ( research by Kia ). While not every accident can be avoided, motorists can increase their safety by following preparing their vehicle for the journey ahead. As well as making them safer, it will also reduce the potential bills associated with a breakdown.

Winter road safety tips:

Ensure windscreens are clear.

It seems an obvious advice tip but it’s surprising how many motorists drive off in the early morning with limited vision due to a frozen windscreen. The chance of an accident is significantly higher if you do not have full vision and you are highly likely to be held accountable if the worst was to happen. To avoid such a situation, top up your antifreeze regularly and get up earlier so you have time to defrost your windscreen before leaving for work.

Check tyre thread.

Tyres have a huge safety role to play and this is particularly important during winter when road surfaces are slippery from snow, ice or dead leaves. Legally, tyres must be 1.6mm however many motoring organisations suggest tyres should be at least 2mm and preferably 3mm to cope with winter driving conditions. Excess water and snow can force vehicles to lose control. Good thread depth is required to disperse this water and maintain contact with the road.

Check battery and electrics .

Wipers, lights and heaters place your car’s battery under more demand during winter and eventually it will fail. If you replace your battery prior to it failing, you will save yourself time and inconvenience of it failing in the middle of nowhere or at the roadside. A car’s battery can be checked during routine maintenance to ensure it has sufficient life remaining. You can also reduce pressure on your car battery by avoiding running hearing systems longer than absolutely necessary which means switching it off once windows are clear.

Ensure radiator fluid levels are adequate .

Modern cars are filled with anti-freeze fluid which is designed to last. This fluid is used to prevent your car’s engine and radiators from freezing when temperatures plummet in winter. It is advisable to ensure your vehicle’s anti-freeze levels never fall below minimum as this will help you avoid potential damage to the engine and radiators which could be expensive to fix. A qualified mechanic or service specialist will be able to carry out the necessary checks.

Keep fuel levels topped up.

By keeping full levels topped up to half at all times, motorists can reduce the risk of moisture forming in the gas lines and possibly freezing – resulting in a vehicle that won’t start.

There are more tips online to help drivers negotiate icy road conditions as well as ensure their vehicle is ready for winter. Many motorists book in for a winter health check to provide real peace of mind their vehicle is fit for cold weather.

We hope you found our Five tips to stay safe on the roads this winter useful, if you would like to speak with one of mechanics, then please call us on 01375 379401.