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Nev’s Top Tips: Winter Driving

by | Jan 21, 2019 | Applied Driving, Driving Tips

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January is the month of biting cold and dark days that seem neverending. The threat of bad weather looms overhead as our cheeks tinge pink from stinging winds. News anchors across the country talk of ‘beats from the east’ and hint at the dreaded ‘S-word’ – snow.

With this in mind, we have spoken again to our driving whizz, Nev, who heads up our training and development. Check out his pre-winter tips below to help you with essential preparation for if we see the weather take a turn for the worse in the coming weeks.

TOP TEN TIPS

“We all know that it does not take much in the way of snow or ice to bring our roads to a standstill. Make sure that you and your vehicle are ready to tackle rough weather by taking a look at the basic points of safety and maintenance.” ~ Nev

ONE

Your tyres have a good degree of tread. “I tend to have a minimum of 3mm of tread or they get changed,” says Nev. Maintenance rules on lease cars may impact this so check if applicable.  Ensure that the tyres are inflated to the correct level and remember to check the spare if you have one.

TWO

Your coolant is of the correct strength and is set at the correct level. Check out Nev’s last round of tips on coolant/antifreeze for more info.

THREE

Your screenwash is topped up with a good concentration of washer fluid.

FOUR

Carry a de-icer spray and scraper.

FIVE

Ensure that you carry a phone charger.

SIX

Keep your fuel level topped up.

FOUR

Carry a de-icer spray and scraper.

FIVE

Ensure that you carry a phone charger.

SIX

Keep your fuel level topped up.

SEVEN

Google your journey plan before setting out to check your route is clear. Keep the traffic info on during your drive.

EIGHT

Make sure you have a plan ‘B’ should your journey be disrupted. For example, somewhere you could stop over should you get stranded or an alternative route back if you have to abandon the trip.

SEVEN

Google your journey plan before setting out to check your route is clear. Keep the traffic info on during your drive.

EIGHT

Make sure you have a plan ‘B’ should your journey be disrupted. For example, somewhere you could stop over should you get stranded or an alternative route back if you have to abandon the trip.

NINE

Snow shovel, snow chains or what are known as snow socks for recovery should you get stranded. Google ‘snow socks for cars’.

TEN

Don’t attempt a journey if you feel that the risk is too great. Very few journeys are worth the risk of getting stranded.

NINE

Snow shovel, snow chains or what are known as snow socks for recovery should you get stranded. Google ‘snow socks for cars’.

TEN

Don’t attempt a journey if you feel that the risk is too great. Very few journeys are worth the risk of getting stranded.
 

Whilst these tips will help to keep you prepared should the weather turn nasty, it is crucial to remember: the most important thing is to never journey in hazardous conditions wherever possible.

Figures show that drivers are nearly 20% more accident prone during the dark, winter months. The best way to protect yourself is to avoid the road when harsh conditions strike, or when they are predicted.

 

 

Check back soon for more handy hints from Nev.