So the clocks have gone back which signals one thing, winter is coming and with it the country’s worst storm since 1987 is brewing.
With weather forecasters predicting a cold one, it is even more important this year to prepare your vehicles for the wear and tear of the weather, which is why we have come up with a few tips to help be safe on the roads this winter.
- First of all ensure your vehicle is roadworthy and fully prepared for the worst kind of conditions. A lot of garages across the UK offer free car checks around this time of year to ensure you are ready but if you do want to do it yourself you need to make sure your headlamps are clean, windscreen is smear free, check your tyre’s pressure and tread and ensure that your windscreen wash levels are correct.
- Right, so your vehicle is ready to go, which leads us on to what you should be aware off once you have set off on your journey. It is important that you are mindful of other road users and pedestrians alike, even on the most familiar of routes. Make sure you give plenty of stopping distance from the vehicle in front and as the weather gets colder, and ice and snow creep in, make sure you allow greater distance.
- Be aware of other motorists. You might be the safest driver in the world but unfortunately you can’t control other drivers. Make sure you are particularly mindful of blind spots and be sure to give bigger vehicles such as lorries and buses plenty of room in windy and slippery conditions.
- Keep an eye out for cyclists. They are often forgotten about in the winter but they still use the roads so make sure you drive safely and give them plenty of room.
- The same goes for pedestrians. Schools are still in term, the elderly will still walk to the shops and joggers will still keep to their exercise routines so make sure you keep your eyes out for them.
- So that’s your short distance drives covered. What about your long distant journeys? Well one thing you should definitely do is plan your route carefully before setting off and ensure that you take regular breaks during your journey. Driving in poor weather conditions requires great attention and regular breaks will allow you to keep your focus throughout.
- Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged and that your car is packed with warm clothing, water, energy foods and a torch in case of emergencies. You can never be sure when it comes to breakdowns or stoppages in stormy winter conditions, so it is best to be safe rather than sorry.
- The final piece advice is to avoid making unnecessary journeys. Everyone has to go to work or take children to school etc. But if the weather is wet, icy or snowy, don’t make that trip in your car to the local shop or to see your friends. Stay safe and wait for the weather to improve.
These are just a few simple tips to help you keep safe on the roads this winter. Unfortunately not everyone will follow advice on how to handle the roads and it is well know that accidents across the winter period are very likely. If you are injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault this winter Scott Rees & Co can help you claim compensation to help you recover and if you need our help you can contact us on 0800 614 361 or by filling out our claim form online.
Image source(s)
1. Pexels; SkitterPhoto; https://www.pexels.com/photo/cold-snow-black-and-white-road-4241/