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Driving in the snow safety tips

7 TIPS FOR DRIVING IN SNOW AND ICE

 

It’s that time of year again when the weather becomes more dangerous for driving. Snow and ice is extremely hazardous and motorists need to be vigilant when driving in these conditions. Below are 7 tips for driving in snow and ice.

1. Only if necessary

Quite simply, if you don’t need to go out then the best place is to stay at home. By staying in you can’t come to any harm on the road. Driving in these conditions is always a risk and its one that isn’t worth taking if you really don’t need to travel.

2. Plan ahead

If you do need to venture out then plan ahead. Make sure there is enough petrol and check the tread depth on the tyres. It’s also a good idea to pack a bag of provisions just in case the worse should happen and you break down, even for short distances.

3. Use your headlights

Even if it’s the middle of the day when the snow starts to fall put your headlights on. The dashboards on some modern cars can light up without the headlights on so always check. 

4. Keeping your distance

You should always keep your distance from the car in front but more so during winter as icy conditions can decrease stopping distances. As a rule of thumb you should stay at least 20 seconds behind the car in front.

5. Smoothly does it

Driving in snow and ice is a different experience and care and attention needs to be paid. The car will handle a lot differently under icy conditions. Don’t be heavy on the brakes and certainly reduce your speed to enough that you’re always in control.

6. Handling a skidding car

You should test your brakes and the steering to see how slippery the road is. Obviously this should be on a clear road with no traffic. If you do feel the car skid take your foot from the accelerator and let the car slow down until you’re regain control.

7. Surroundings

When it comes to winter driving you need to be aware of your surroundings and other motorists on the road. Anticipating everything from approaching a corner or intersection to slow moving vehicles is crucial. Take nothing to chance in weather like this.

 

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