Hendy's Top 10 Safe Winter Driving Do's and Don'ts

Date

January 13, 2012

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With the New Year bringing promise of cold weather, and as our schools and businesses begin to reopen, here at The Hendy Group we have compiled a list of our top 10 driving tips to keep you safe on the road this winter.

10. DO give yourself a little extra time in the morning to scrape your windows and clear the snow and ice off of your car. If it is an especially cold morning, why not send the kids out to do it?

Clearing all the windows and mirrors means full visibility and ensures no blind spots on your vehicle. Make sure you do not use a scraper on heated windows or mirrors as this may damage them irreparably.

Snow blowing off the top of your car can be hazardous to other drivers. Use a soft brush or something similar to remove the snow without scratching the paint.

DON’T forget to clear the lights and number plates of your car.

9. DO use winterised windscreen washer fluid. The winter-grade fluid won’t freeze, which will keep the washer pipes and pump from freezing and cracking.

DON’T use hot water to clear your windows as this may crack the glass.

8. DO wash your car regularly to remove the salt that is picked up from the road.

DON’T allow road salt and dirt to eat away at your car. No one wants to see their car aging prematurely.

7. DO prepare for the worst case scenario. Make sure you have a blanket, winter clothing, boots, a shovel, a torch (with fresh batteries) and snacks in the car. Keeping a mobile phone with you can be a life-saver so an in-car phone charger is a must have for any time of year.

DON’T forget a bag of sand or even cat litter, which will provide the tyres with extra traction if you get stuck on snow or ice.

6. DO keep your fuel tank at least half full to ensure you don’t get stranded in bad weather. Also, if you do get stuck, you will have enough fuel to keep the engine running and have the heating on.

DON’T forget to regularly check all fluid levels and top-up if necessary. Be sure to keep a close eye on your tyres by checking the pressure, tread depth and general condition of tyres including the spare. Your vehicle handbook will have the correct specifications for the car.

5. DO maintain awareness of your surroundings, even more so in winter conditions.

It takes much longer to stop on ice and snow so it is important to watch the road as far ahead as possible to ensure you have plenty of time to react to any situation.

DON’T follow other vehicles too closely. The vehicle ahead should pass a road marker at least 4 seconds before you to maximise the time you have to respond.

4. DO apply the brakes steadily with even pressure on slippery roads. Remember, anti-lock brakes are designed to help the driver control the vehicle while braking. They do not decrease stopping distance.

DON’T be overconfident. Test the road surface carefully and change your driving manner accordingly. If you have never driven on ice or snow before, take it extra slow. Give yourself lots of time to manoeuvre.

3. DO turn into the slide if you lose control and lightly adjust acceleration.

DON’T make any sudden changes in direction or acceleration.

2. DO remain in your vehicle if you are stuck as long as it is safe. Ensure the exhaust pipe is not blocked by snow, and then, if possible, run the engine to stay warm.

DON’T panic if you break down or get stuck. It is important to stay calm so you can think clearly.

1. DO stay awake and alert. Driving in adverse conditions takes more concentration so taking regular breaks is even more important.

DON’T drive drunk. This is our top tip for driving safely through the winter months. If you think there is any chance you will be drinking, organise transport or a bed in advance. One night of poor planning could affect the rest of your life.

At The Hendy Group, we understand the importance of keeping your car up to scratch at this time of year, which is why we offer a number of services to help you through the winter.

Our service department can do a winter health check on your car and will also wash it for you. Don’t forget to stop by the parts department for winterised screen-wash.

To find out more, call us on 0845 608 0426 or visit one our many branches.