Get in gear for winter driving
and carry a de-icer and a screen scraper. Whatever you do, don’t use hot water to de-ice the car as this can crack the windscreen.
As the darker evenings approach and the temperatures drop, probably the biggest danger on the roads during winter is black ice because it’s difficult to see. Watch out for it in sheltered or shaded areas on the road, for example under trees, near high walls and under bridges.
Black ice can sometimes be seen in the right lighting conditions as it forms in smooth, glossy sheets.
Keep an eye out for a slick or glossy coating on the road and adjust your speed accordingly.
Drivers should become familiar with the safety assist features on their car. During the big freeze in 2010 there were reports of people bringing their car to the garage because of unusual braking activity in the snowy and icy conditions.
It turned out there was nothing wrong with the car — the strange braking was simply the ABS [antilock braking system] kicking in.
So make sure to go through the car manual and find out if your vehicle has safety-assist technology such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or ABS. Learn how these technologies can assist your driving in harsh weather conditions.
During winter it is advisable to carry a number of essentials in the boot. This can include a high visibility vest, de-icing equipment, a torch, a hazard warning triangle, a first-aid kit and a blanket, additional clothing and some food and water.
Whether you are driving in foggy, flooded, icy or snowy conditions, there is one important counter measure you will need to take, and that is to slow down! If you drive too fast for the conditions, you risk a skid or aquaplaning.
In extreme weather, you will need extra time and space to react and stop. The key this winter is to slow down and remain a safe distance behind the car in front of you.
If driving in foggy or snowy conditions, use your fog lights, but please don’t forget to turn them off when it clears, otherwise you risk dazzling other drivers.
Remember you must not use fog lights in normal driving conditions, either during the day or at night, even if you think it’s increasing your visibility on the road.
While drivers have the luxury of being cocooned in their vehicles in poor weather, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists face a difficult time running the gauntlet that severe weather poses.
Heavy rain, flooded roads and strong winds can blow or force vulnerable road users onto the road, so drivers really do need to be on guard and give them plenty of room.
Also watch out for fallen debris like branches which pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and other drivers may have to react to suddenly.
In extreme weather, listen to national and local weather and traffic reports. Pay heed to the weather warnings alerting drivers to unsafe and dangerous driving conditions.
Most of all, heed any road closures or detours put in place. For example, if the road ahead is closed due to flooding then choose another route. Flooded roads that appear shallow could be deeper than you think. It can also cause irreparable damage to your car engine.