When you’re driving in snow, you have to have your wits about you. Snowstorms can affect visibility, as well as making it difficult to maintain control of the vehicle and navigate slippery road surfaces.
If you’re driving, and there’s snow on the ground, prepare in advance. Before you get behind the wheel, gather some essential supplies. Pack layers and warm clothing, blankets, a torch and first aid supplies, and don’t forget to charge your phone. Take food and a flask of tea or coffee with you and ensure you’ve got a shovel, a scraper, de-icer and screenwash in the car.
Take a few minutes to look at the route and listen out for weather warnings and advice from emergency services and agencies in charge of monitoring the roads. The last thing you want when you’re trying to get to your destination safely is to run out of gas, so fill up before you set off and check the location of gas stations on your route. It’s also a good idea to check your tires and top up the engine oil. Your tire tread should be at least 4 mm in winter.
If it starts to snow heavily while you’re on the road, reduce your speed, use your lights to improve visibility and consider pulling over in a safe place if you can’t see or you’re starting to lose traction. If the roads are icy, keep your distance from the vehicle in front, as your stopping distance will increase. If you need more tips, take a look at this useful infographic.
Infographic created by IntelligentCarLeasing
