As colder weather sets in across the UK, drivers are being urged to take extra precautions when heading out on the roads. The Met Office has issued snow and ice warnings for parts of Scotland and England this week, highlighting the need for extra vigilance during this challenging season.

John Wilmot, CEO of car leasing comparison website LeaseLoco, emphasised the importance of adapting driving habits to winter conditions:

“There has been a noticeable change in the weather conditions and much colder weather is set to arrive across the UK this week.

‘In parts of the country, drivers need to be extra careful on the roads. It’s important to adjust your driving to suit more challenging road conditions and take your time when you’re out and about, even if you know the routes like the back of your hand.

‘Clocks went back at the end of October, which means commuters are now heading home in the dark after an exhausting day at work, and this is the time when concentration levels can dip. As drivers face tougher road conditions generally as we head into the winter months, it’s worth taking the time to give your car a thorough inspection, including checking the tyre pressure and tread depths.”

To help drivers navigate safely during the winter months, here are ten essential tips:

1. Check Your Vehicle Before Setting Off

Before setting off, ensure your car is winter-ready by thoroughly checking essential components such as the battery, tyres, brakes, and lights. Use winter tyres or ensure your existing tyres have a tread depth of at least 3mm to improve grip in icy conditions. Additionally, top up all necessary fluids, including antifreeze, windscreen washer fluid, and oil, to keep your vehicle running smoothly in colder weather.

2. Clear Snow and Ice Thoroughly

Before driving, make sure to fully clear all snow, ice, and condensation from your windows, mirrors, lights, and roof to ensure maximum visibility and safety. Use a de-icer, scraper, or an approved defrosting spray to effectively remove ice. Additionally, check that your windscreen wipers are not frozen to the glass to prevent damage when they are activated.

3. Drive Slowly and Smoothly

To account for reduced grip in winter conditions, reduce your speed and maintain a steady pace while driving. Avoid sudden braking, accelerating, or sharp steering, as these actions can increase the risk of skidding and losing control of your vehicle.

4. Increase Following Distance

Maintain at least double the usual distance between your vehicle and the one ahead to allow for safer stopping in winter conditions. On icy roads, increase this distance even further, as stopping distances can be up to ten times longer than under normal driving conditions.

5. Be Prepared for Reduced Visibility

Ensure your visibility and safety by using dipped headlights during the day and fog lights when visibility is severely reduced. Additionally, keep your windows and mirrors clean and clear at all times to maintain a clear view of the road and surroundings.

6. Know How to Handle Skidding

If your car begins to skid, steer gently in the direction of the skid—for example, if the rear of your vehicle slides to the left, steer left. Avoid sudden braking or accelerating, as these actions can worsen the skid and reduce your control over the vehicle.

7. Plan Ahead

Before setting off, check the weather forecast and travel updates to stay informed about road conditions. Allow extra time for your journey to account for potential delays, and if conditions are severe, consider postponing your travel until it is safer to drive.

8. Carry Emergency Essentials

Prepare for unexpected situations by packing an emergency kit with essential items such as a shovel, blanket, torch, high-visibility jacket, and a first-aid kit. Include de-icer, a scraper, spare screenwash, and ensure you have food, water, and a fully charged mobile phone to stay safe and equipped during winter travel.

9. Use Gears Wisely

In icy or snowy conditions, use higher gears to minimise wheel spin and maintain better control of your vehicle. When driving downhill, switch to a low gear and avoid braking unless absolutely necessary to prevent skidding and ensure a safer descent.

10. Avoid Unnecessary Journeys

In severe weather conditions, avoid driving unless your journey is absolutely essential. If you must travel, prioritise main roads, as they are more likely to have been gritted and cleared, ensuring safer driving conditions.

Essential Winter Accessories

Winter weather can be unpredictable, and ensuring your car is stocked with the right accessories can make all the difference. LeaseLoco has compiled a list of must-have items to ensure your winter journeys are safe and hassle-free:

• Fully Charged Mobile Phone & Charger: Your lifeline in an emergency, with a charger to keep it powered. If your car lacks a USB port, invest in a portable charger or one that uses the cigarette lighter.
  
  
• Ice Scraper and De-Icer: Skip the risky boiling water trick and properly clear your windscreen with these essential tools. Driving with an unclear windscreen is dangerous and illegal.
  
  
• Hi-Vis Clothing: Essential if you need to stop on the roadside, ensuring you’re visible to other drivers.
  
  
• Snow Chains or Socks: These boost your tires’ grip on snow or ice, improving safety in extreme weather conditions.
  
  
• Emergency Warning Triangle: Warn other drivers of a breakdown by placing this reflective triangle 45 metres behind your vehicle.
  
  
• Food, Water, and Warm Clothing: Keep energy-boosting snacks and water handy, along with jackets, hats, and gloves to stay warm during delays.
  
  
• Blanket or Travel Rug: Ideal for keeping passengers warm, especially if you’re waiting for roadside assistance.
  
  
• Screen Wash and Tow Rope: Keep your windscreen clear with extra washer fluid and carry a tow rope for emergencies.
  
  
• Jump Leads: Car batteries are prone to failure in cold weather—jump leads are a must for quick fixes.
  
  
• Torch and Shovel: Navigate the dark and clear snow quickly with these practical tools.
  
  
• First Aid Kit: Always important, especially in winter when icy roads increase accident risks

About LeaseLoco

LeaseLoco was launched in 2017. LeaseLoco is the UK’s largest car leasing comparison site, making it quick and easy for consumers to effortlessly search and compare over 10 million deals from top dealers and brokers.

Find out more at https://www.leaseloco.com/