According to the latest weather reports, an arctic weather bomb is expected for this week and next, bringing icier roads and even snow.
Winter is usually the season that presents the most challenging road conditions, and it seems to be getting more dangerous year on year with the unpredictability of global climate change.
We always try to promote road safety, so here is a series of friendly reminders to help you cope with winter weather on the road, which is just as useful for both professional drivers and other road users: here are our top winter-driving safety reminders!
#1 - What should I do to make my travels the safest possible?
• Make sure you plan your route and journey well.
• Allow realistic journeying time and don’t rush.
• Ensure at least someone is aware that you are travelling.
#2 - Check your vehicle thoroughly:
• We have created a winter checklist that might assist you in doing that, you can download it for free.
#3 - Stay informed:
• Make sure you check weather and travel information.
#4 - While on the road:
• Use the main roads which are more likely to be salted.
• Allow extra time for your journey.
• Adapt your driving style according to the prevailing conditions— on treated untreated roads: reduce speed in poor visibility and where snow/ice may have formed; use the highest gear possible to help keep control of the vehicle; avoid harsh braking/acceleration and make adjustments for longer stopping distances.
• Use rear fog lights in poor visibility, but remember to switch them off when conditions improve.
• Watch out for other road users, including motorbikes, pushbikes, pedestrians and children, who may also be having difficulties in the conditions.
#5 - In the event of a breakdown:
• If you do have to leave your vehicle, make yourself visible to others.
• If you have to abandon your vehicle, give local police the details and park safely to avoid obstruction to maintenance vehicles such as snow ploughs which will need access in order to treat the roads.
