Everyone knows that driving has certain risks. Even in the best driving conditions accidents can, and do, happen. You may live in a state where severe winter weather is infrequent, but it is best to be prepared for all sorts of conditions – as a driver it is your responsibility to make sure you know how to prepare for situations.
No matter what the weather brings, a car should be kept in good working order. Tires, brakes and other vital components should always be fit for purpose. Levels of water, oil, coolant and antifreeze should be checked regularly to prevent unnecessary breakdowns. Looking after a car on a routine basis can prevent certain problems occurring or worsening. Small problems can lead to higher repair costs at a later date if allowed to continue. When driving, even if just for a short distance, make sure you and everyone else in the vehicle is wearing a safety belt correctly, this simple action can save lives. Make sure any animal in the vehicle is appropriately restrained so it is not able to distract the driver or cause any damage.
Driving in winter weather can prove a challenge even to the most experienced driver. As with ordinary driving, a car will need to be in good working order, but snow and ice necessitate more preparation before setting off on your journey. You may wish to fit snow-chains to your tires. Make sure the visibility is fine before setting off – de-ice all the windows and mirrors, shift any snow off the bonnet, license plates and lights. Make sure the screen washer jets are working and wipers are able to move free of obstruction – even if it isn’t snowing when you set off it may blizzard later! Often a car will mist up inside when started up in cold conditions – make sure you can see clearly before starting out.
In addition to this, it may be worthwhile taking extra provisions – a shovel, some sand/salt/grit, a torch, tow rope and jump leads may be of use if you get stuck, a warm blanket, water, some snacks and spare, warm clothing can make all the difference when stranded.
When starting out remember to drive carefully and steadily – you will need to drive much slower than usual, and to increase the distance between you vehicle and the one in front in case you need to use your brakes. Brakes need to be used carefully in snow and ice. Decelerate gently well in advance of bends or junctions to avoid skidding. If you find your vehicle has begun to skid, do not suddenly apply your brakes - leave off the gas and steer the front of the car very gently in the direction of the skid until you have been able to gain control. If possible in your vehicle, use the highest gear available when pulling off and continue to drive in the highest gear possible for your speed to avoid wheel spin. If your car or truck does become stuck, do not continually spin the drive wheels as this will just dig them deeper into the snow. Use a shovel to dig the snow away and/or put down some grit or sand to help gain traction.
If you really need to drive in severe winter weather, prepare wisely and use caution. Use your brakes, steer and accelerate gently to avoid incidents.
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