This weekend will see the first frost of winter as forecasters are predicting temperatures as low as -2 and -3 across many parts of the country, and even snow flurries in some places! But this type of weather also brings with it a heightened risk of road accidents. So, how do you avoid becoming a statistic? Follow these simple steps and drive safely this winter.
First and foremost, slow your speed. Whilst driving too fast for wintery conditions isn’t the sole cause of accidents, it is a major contributory factor. Slowing the speed at which you’re driving will give you time to properly assess the road conditions, visibility and the weather. Plus, the slower you’re going, the more likely you’ll be able to control a skid, should this happen, and it improves your stopping distances.
We all use our car headlights far more frequently in winter (or we should be!) so it is important to make sure that all the bulbs are working effectively and if not, replace them; it’s always handy to keep a spare or two just in case. Make sure anti-freeze has been added and windscreen wash that is suitable for cold, frosty conditions is replenished. Ensure your car tyres have plenty of tread and that your vehicle has been fully serviced before the winter starts to avoid any potential breakdowns.
There’s nothing worse than driving when you’re tired, and can be the cause of many an accident! If you’re on a long journey, take regular breaks for at least an hour at a time to eat and rest, and make sure you drink plenty of water to keep you hydrated and refreshed. If you’re feeling tired before you even start your journey, think carefully before getting in to your vehicle – is the journey necessary? Can it wait a few hours so you can get some sleep? Is it possible to book a taxi?
An obvious tip, you would have thought, but with the festive Christmas season coming upon us and parties to go to, you’d be amazed at the number of people who drive after having just one or two alcoholic drinks. Don’t do it! Even one alcoholic drink can cause your reactions to be significantly slower and is dangerous. If you’re the designated driver, don’t drink alcohol at all.
In winter the weather conditions can change within a short space of time, or your vehicle may breakdown for whatever reason, and you may find yourself stranded for a while. Make sure you carry plenty of warm clothes and blankets with you. Keep plenty of water available for any journey, and also food to eat that is easy to keep. Make sure mobile phones are fully charged and that you have the contact/membership numbers for your road recovery organisation, such as the AA, Green Flag and the RAC, should you breakdown. Plus, make sure somebody knows where you’re travelling to, your planned route, what time you left and what time you anticipate arriving at your destination.
