Safe driving in ice and snow requires skill and planning.
In the UK we rarely have to deal with these difficult conditions, but when the temperatures do plummet you need to know how to drive safe in icy conditions.
Even the most experienced drivers can make fatal mistakes when road conditions are slippery in the winter, so WS Driving School have created these top tips for safe driving in winter.
Plan Ahead
Make sure you leave plenty of time! If the roads are icy then you'll need to allow extra time to de-ice your car before setting off.
You must clear ALL windows fully of any ice or snow before driving in the winter. You'll need to allow time for your engine to warm before driving in sub-zero temperatures too.
#WinterDrivingTips include turning on your lights while you clear the windows so that the heat from the bulbs also begins to clear the headlight casing too.
Reduce Your Speed
When driving in winter conditions you need to avoid any sudden braking or steering. The best way to avoid a skid on ice is to reduce your speed to minimise the braking required to come to a stop. Brake slowly and progressively in winter conditions to avoid skidding.
Increase Your Gear
It may sound weird, but driving in the highest gear possible for the speed will help your tyres to grip on slippery surfaces. Move off in second gear where possible as your tyres will struggle to grip the road and gain traction.
Stay Calm If You Skid
When the tyres can't grip the road surface you may find the car begins to skid. Stay calm!
To correct a skid you need to gain control of the car as quickly as possible and steer slightly in the same direction as the car is swinging.
To help the car re-grip the road stop braking so that the tyres can begin turning again.
Increase Your Stopping Distance In Winter
Winter stopping distances can be up to ten times greater when driving on ice and snow.
Make sure you leave a much larger gap between you and the cars around you to improve safety. LOOK BEHIND you and if road users following you are too close then our #WinterDrivingTips suggest increasing the gap in front of you even further so that you can brake even more slowly if needed.
The best way to stay safe is to avoid any unnecessary travel in icy and snowy conditions.
WS Driving School recommends staying at home, putting the television on and drinking plenty of tea.
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