Winter time is finally here and I’m sure we’ve all been looking forward to Christmas, hoping to wake up to that brand new car after successfully passing your 5-day driving course! However, it’s not just the festivities we should be keeping a close eye on, but more so the weather conditions that will affect driving no matter what your level of experience.
Adverse weather conditions can be daunting and dangerous, for new drivers especially. Unfortunately, it can be a little difficult to avoid such conditions living in the UK and that’s why it’s highly crucial that you’re informed, prepared and confident when driving in the winter time.
As many of us around the UK may have recently experienced snowfall, we thought it’d be the perfect opportunity to make new drivers aware of the risks, how to prevent them but also how to prepare.
De-icing your car
One of many drivers worst nightmares is waking up in the morning to the sight of their car buried underneath mountains of snow or ice and having to spend time in the sub-zero temperatures scraping windows.
Ice and frost can obstruct your vision if your mirrors and windows aren’t properly de-iced, which can affect your driving ability. It also states in the law that your vehicle must be kept clean and free of obstruction to vision. So while that additional time scraping may seem a nuisance, it will keep you safe on the roads.
Check your tyres
Although this should be done all year round, in winter time especially it is an absolute must to check your tyres to prevent any hazards on the road. Many drivers may not be aware, but the temperature can affect tyre pressures, causing them to deflate which affects breaking distance and steering control, which is highly dangerous. Some drivers may even fit winter tyres which can be very useful. If you can’t fit new tyres, it’s important to take your current tyres to get checked as soon and as regularly as you can.
Keep your distance
Keeping your distance when driving in winter will reduce the risk of colliding with other vehicles which can easily happen in bad weather conditions. By keeping at least a 200 meter distance from the car in front, you allow yourself enough room to be able to break safely if necessary.
Try not to overtake
In adverse weather conditions, it’s important to be extra patient when it comes to driving. When roads are slippery, it can be considerably more dangerous to overtake. if it’s not necessary, try to avoid it.
Don’t wear restrictive clothing
One common mistake that drivers make through winter is wearing thick jackets, thick gloves and scarfs which can restrict your movement when needing to steer. Many drivers have blamed their clothing for uncontrolled steering, so it’s best to remove any obstructive clothing beforehand to ensure you have free movement.
So hopefully by now you know have gained some insight into driving safely during the winter months. All we say is to be vigilant on the roads.
If you would like any more information about our 5-day driving course Peterborough, then don’t hesitate to contact us today!