Travelling by road in winter weather

One of the main things we all have to deal with once the temperature drops is trying to travel safely by road. Below are some tips and advice if you intend travelling by road in wintry conditions.

Motorist checklist

Additives

Keep windscreen washer and radiator fluid levels full and make sure the water contains anti-freezing additive.

Battery

Keep your battery fully charged.

Lights

Make sure all lights are clean and working properly and always use your headlights when it's snowing.

Tyres

Your tyres (including the spare) should have plenty of tread and be inflated to the correct pressure.

Wipers

Keep wiper blades in good condition.

Windows

Remove all snow and ice from your windows, doors, lights, mirrors, roof and bonnet before setting out.

Play your part

prepare your car before the winter sets in
limit your travel to essential trips only
listen to your local radio station and weather forecasts for traffic news
plan your route to avoid steep mountainous or lightly travelled roads
leave early and expect any trip to take at least twice as long as normal
make sure you bring a mobile phone if at all possible
slow down and keep a safe distance behind the driver in front
avoid quick acceleration or sharp braking
do not obstruct winter service vehicles as they treat the roads

If you get into trouble

stop somewhere safe and phone for help if you have a mobile phone
stay with your vehicle until help arrives
wrap up warm and drink plenty of fluids (no alcohol)
run engine to keep warm unless snow blocks exhaust
if you must leave your vehicle to get help, make sure someone knows where you are going