The motoring experts say it could prove key in getting out of trouble when the weather turns colder
Many motorists are wary when the winter arrives and temperatures drop. Driving conditions can worsen quickly leaving people having to negotiate ice or snow on the roads.
And while often the motorways and other major routes can clear quickly as a result of volume of traffic there are still times it can be hard to drive in. Motoring experts the AA have some tips for drivers on how to stay safe – and how to get out of difficulty if you become stuck.
Posting on its website it says: “The roads can be dangerous in winter when there’s snow, ice or sleet. Our top tip is to take it slow. Stopping distances can be 10 times longer when it’s icy. Gentle manoeuvres and slow speeds are the key to safe driving in ice and snow.
“In the season of winter colds, don’t drive with a cold if you’re feeling unwell and are on any medicine that could make you drowsy. It could affect your reaction times.”
It has some key advice for people heading out advising them to do several things before they set off. These include:
- Allow extra time for winter journeys
- Plan routes around major roads, which are more likely to be cleared and gritted
- Try to get up at least 10 minutes early to give you time to de-ice the car
- Wear comfortable, dry shoes for driving so your feet don’t slip on the pedals
- Check fuel levels – have at least a quarter of a tank in case of unexpected delays
- Clear all windows using a scraper and de-icer and wait until the windscreen’s fully demisted
- If you drive an automatic, check the handbook – some have a winter mode or recommend selecting ‘2’ in slippery conditions
Once you are on your way it also explans the best way to stay safe and get to your destination. It advises:
- Pull away in second gear, easing your foot off the clutch gently to avoid wheel-spin
- If you have to use your brakes, apply them gently
- Driving uphill – leave plenty of room between other cars or wait until it’s clear so you don’t have to stop part way up. Keep a constant speed and try to avoid having to change gear on the hill
- Driving downhill – slow down before the hill, use a low gear and try to avoid braking. Leave as much room as you can after the car in front
And there is one other key bit of information which could prove essential. It explains you should carry an old rug or sack with you as it can help get you going if you find yourself stuck.
It says: “If you get stuck, straighten the steering and clear the snow from the wheels. Put a sack or old rug in front of the driving wheels to give the tyres some grip.”
