Staying safe on the roads in winter: five important considerations

Staying safe on the road is something we all strive to do, but wintry weather conditions can make it trickier. Here are five important considerations to help you protect yourself, your loved ones, and your …

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Staying safe on the road is something we all strive to do, but wintry weather conditions can make it trickier. Here are five important considerations to help you protect yourself, your loved ones, and your vehicle this winter.

1. Vehicle checks

Most people have it drummed into them that they should carry out basic vehicle checks prior to taking a car out on a long journey. When it comes to winter, whatever the distance, it is best to check the vehicle at least once a week, just to be on the safe side. Oil levels should be between the two lines on the dipstick, and it should come out a yellowy-brown colour, not too dark (although this is ok for a diesel vehicle). Likewise, engine coolant should be topped up, using antifreeze rather than water, as well as windscreen washers. Finally, always check that your tyres have enough tread on them. You may wish to consider swapping them for winter tyres if the conditions are likely bad for several months. Be sure to check the status of your car insurance, too, just in case you require it.

2. Keep it clean

It always seems a little baffling to think that you should keep your vehicle clean in the winter despite the fact that even driving away from a car wash, it will be covered in grit and dirt once again. However, ensuring that your car lights are properly visible and your vision through your windscreen and all mirrors is good can help to reduce the risk of any form of accident.

3. Remote car start

Getting up twenty minutes earlier to ensure you can defrost the car windscreen and to avoid seeing your breath while you are driving can be frustrating. Many people are now choosing to invest in a remote car starter, which allows you to start the vehicle’s engine from a distance. In other words, you could still be brushing your teeth, applying your make up or getting dressed while your car is getting up to temperature and the ice on the windscreen is melting naturally.

4. Fill up your tank

With the cost-of-living increases, it is easy to feel that filling up the car on a regular basis is both expensive and time-consuming. However, there can be numerous problems on the roads, particularly in winter, and the last thing you want is to be panicking about almost being on the fuel light. Filling up your tank regularly means that you will have peace of mind and your car will be ready even if the traffic is snarled up.

5. Prepare an emergency kit

Unfortunately, not even a full fuel tank can save you on all occasions. Sometimes, the snow can be so terrible or the traffic jams so bad that you have no option but to switch off your engine and prepare to rest inside your car. In these cases, it is always a relief to know that you have an emergency kit in the car. It is advisable to include a wind-up torch, a blanket, a supply of snacks (that keep for a while in the car), some water to drink and perhaps a phone charging pack, that is in itself fully charged.