Ice, wind and snow are some of the driving conditions motorists have been advised how to tackle in a new driving guide.
Driving experts from LeaseVan.co.uk have created a guide to driving in winter so motorists are prepared and safe on the roads no matter what the weather.
The key in most difficult conditions is to slow down and ensure drivers are in complete control of the vehicle.
Watching how other motorists are tackling the weather will also help prepare drivers for what is coming up ahead of them.
A spokesperson for LeaseVan.co.uk said: “Wintertime is undoubtedly the hardest time of year to be hitting the roads.
“With short days it means that many journeys are taken in the dark and the unpredictable weather could mean you’re tackling wind one day and snow the next.
“This handy little guide provides the key points you should be aware of when driving in all winter weather conditions.”
This is LeaseVan.co.uk’s ultimate winter driving guide:
1. Ice
Ensure your vehicle is fully defrosted if there’s been a particularly cold night. Check your tyre tread and inflation levels in order to give you as much traction as possible when on icy surfaces. Driving slowly and in higher gears will give you more control over the vehicle and helping you cope with increased stopping distances. It’s important to remember not to brake or accelerate too quickly as this is a sure way to lose control.
2. Wind
It’s important to keep a firm grip on your steering wheel when tackling strong winds. As always, you should be driving in the centre of the lane as this allows a small amount of wiggle space if the wind does push you to one side. Take special care when overtaking – beware of sudden gusts as you clear the vehicle, especially if it is large.
3. Heavy rain
It’s important to driver slower when it’s raining due to the roads being wetter giving the vehicle less grip. This means that you will need a bigger space to come to a complete stop than when driving in the dry. Heavy rain can also have a large impact on visibility, which again means you should slow down. Reducing speed will also help reduce the risk of aquaplaning.
4. Darkness
Your lights are your best friends when driving in the dark, but it’s important to use them responsibly. Many vehicles now come with automatic lights, but if you have a vehicle which doesn’t it’s important to remember to turn them on, and off, when needed. Stick to full beam lights if you’re on a motorway or lit road. If you’re on a quiet country road remember to turn your fog lights on and off as and when you approach other vehicles.
5. Snow
If you end up in snow, set off in second gear as this helps avoid wheelspin. Stay in the lower gears to keep as much control as possible, even when going downhill. The key to driving in snow is to break, accelerate and change gears as smoothly and gently as you can.
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