We often hear the phrase “winter wonderland” when people talk about snow during the winter months. The reality is that people still need to drive at this time of year and for many of us the prospect of driving in a winter wonderland or driving in snowy conditions is less than wonderful. With the likelihood of some harsh weather conditions at this time of year, here are some tips on how to drive in snow to share with loved ones so that they are aware of the hazards when driving in snow or (more typically for most parts of the UK) ice, heavy rain and strong winds.
Prepare your vehicle for winter
- We don’t always get much snow in the UK, so many people use summer tyres year round. If a snowy winter is anticipated or you live in a part of the UK that is more prone to snow it may be better to install all-season tyres or even winter tyres during the winter months. Winter tyres give extra traction in ice and snow.
- If you install winter tyres make sure your spare tyre is also a winter tyre.
- Ensure your tyres are correctly inflated.
- Chains add another level of safety and are vital if you will be driving in mountainous areas.
- Top up your coolant levels.
- Use windscreen cleaner rated for winter conditions.
- Check windscreen wiper blades are in good condition.
- Check your battery and replace it if it is unreliable.
- Carry a bag of sand, to be used for weight and to give traction when required, and a snow shovel.
- It’s not always easy to change the vehicle you drive, but if you will be travelling in winter conditions frequently, choose a vehicle with front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, or 4-wheel drive. In icy conditions, rear-wheel drive vehicles are more difficult to handle.
- Install a Travall vehicle-specific guard so vehicle occupants have protection from loose objects in the boot should you need to stop the car quickly.
- Keep locks from freezing up by using WD-40.
Know the road conditions
First and foremost, if the conditions are not safe, do not go! If you absolutely must, then plan your route well in advance. Check for road and traffic updates before you leave and as the journey progresses pull over at intervals to check conditions ahead of you.
Check the weather forecast before you leave
Look at the weather forecast for your current location, your final destination and for points along the route. The Met Office gives regular updates for those travelling in the UK as forecasts are updated hourly. If you are aware of weather warnings, there will be fewer surprises on the way. Carry chains if snow is expected and if you’ll be travelling in hills or mountains. Ensure that everyone has the appropriate clothing for the anticipated weather conditions. Having coats, hats, gloves and sturdy boots in the car is essential if you will be travelling in cold temperatures.
Fuel up
Start off with a full tank of fuel and where possible don’t allow your tank to drop below half way. You may have to stop to fill up more frequently, but you don’t want to run out of fuel.
Prepare for driving in wintry conditions
Know how to drive in snow or icy conditions. Drive more slowly than usual and slower than the posted speed limits. Accelerate gently to avoid wheel spins and make gentle manoeuvres. Allow more distance between you and other vehicles. Pump brakes gently and use gears to slow down. If you drive a car with automatic transmission use second gear or winter mode. If possible, improve driving skills by using an empty car park to practice steering into a skid.
In extremely wet conditions, slow down and keep a much greater distance between you and the vehicle in front, as hydroplaning can be a real issue. If you are dealing with high winds too, anticipate gusts and be aware of high-sided vehicles around you and cyclists who could unexpectedly be blown off course.
Carry an emergency survival kit
- First aid kit
- Flares
- Blankets
- Bin bags that could double as a tarpaulin or rain poncho
- High energy food such as muesli bars, flapjacks, or dried fruit.
- Insulated flasks of water and/or hot drinks
- A torch (either handheld or a headlamp version)
- Matches or a lighter
- Candles
- Coats, wool socks, gloves, scarves and other winter clothing
- Umbrella
Where possible use main roads
This may not always be an option, but try to stick to major routes, which tend to be cleared of snow more frequently than smaller local roads. You can get help more easily on main roads if you experience an emergency.
Additional driving tips
- Drive according to the conditions.
- Reduce speed in poor visibility, heavy rain, where there is snow, or if ice may have formed.
- Stay in a lower gear to help keep control of the vehicle and avoid harsh braking and acceleration.
- Maintain larger stopping distances, you may have to double or even triple your stopping distance.
- Use dipped headlights in poor visibility and snow, so others can see you.
- Use rear fog lights if visibility is reduced.
If you get stranded stay with your vehicle
To keep warm try to keep the engine running, but ensure that the exhaust is not clogged with snow.
Try to keep mobile devices charged so you can call for assistance if necessary
For a quick reference post on how to drive in snow, click here. Wherever you are driving this winter all of us at The Savvy Travaller wish you happy travels and hope you enjoy the journey.
