Winter is here. It’s chillier in the mornings, Jack Frost has made himself known and sun strike is running wild. Your chances of losing control and having a car crash substantially increase over the winter months so let's minimise those risks. Here are a few important tips to help you stay safe on the roads:
When the weather gets bad you need to be on top of your driving game...so,
Travel slower - A situation goes from bad to worse in much less time when the roads are slick with water. Some restraint on the throttle will give you more time to react. It'll also be easier for your vehicle to come to a quick stop if required.
Watch for hazards - Scan the road ahead, don’t let anything take you by surprise, always be scanning 12 seconds ahead.
Mind your Manners - If someone wants to enter your lane, let them. Two frustrated drivers on a wet road is a crash waiting to happen. Make sure you have a suitable distance for them to manoeuvre in - and keep everyone safe.
The 4 second rule - In wet weather your stopping distances are typically double that than on a dry road, often more. Your following distances need to be at least four seconds behind the vehicle ahead of you. Allow for more time if visibility is poor.
Be Seen - It gets darker earlier in winter. That means visibility is reduced. So, turn your lights on. The other drivers on the road will be able to react sooner if you are more visible to them.
Keep it clean - Make sure you clean the inside and outside of your windscreen regularly. Make sure your wipers are clean and in good condition and your washer bottles are full. A clean windscreen can reduce the full effect of sun strike.
Be Smart - Antifreeze is an essential winter ingredient for your car's engine. Also keeping warm clothes, a blanket , a torch, first aid kit and some food in your car is also a good idea, just in case you get stuck somewhere for awhile.
Basically let common sense prevail. Keep alert and drive to the conditions.