Winter is a risky time on the road – so make sure you’re in the driving seat

As if pricey fuel wasn’t bad enough, winter is upon us, giving drivers a whole new range of challenges. DIARMUID KELLY, chief executive of Brokers Ireland, offers tips on everything from tyre pressure and tread depth to antifreeze and getting cheaper cover:

How should motorists prepare for winter driving?

With fewer hours of daylight and more inclement weather, risks are far greater. Make sure every aspect of your car is in good working order and pay particular attention to tyres, brakes and lights. Familiarise yourself with the detail of your car insurance policy and emergency numbers, and be more conscious of pedestrians, cyclists and other road users.

Tyre pressure, is that something drivers tend to ignore?

Unfortunately many do. The correct tyre pressure greatly improves safety, reduces risk, makes for more stable driving and benefits fuel economy. The correct levels for your car are usually indicated on the inside of your fuel cap or in the manufacturer’s handbook.

Should we top up antifreeze or is that best left to mechanics?

You need to check your engine’s antifreeze or coolant at least twice a year – it keeps the radiator from freezing. There are different types so check what is recommended for your car. Once you familiarise yourself with this detail you should be able to do it yourself.

How can we check tyre tread depth?

A really simple way is to place a €1 coin in the groove in the centre of the tyre. If the gold section of the coin is not visible, the tyre tread is okay but if it’s visible your tyre could be close to, if not beyond, the minimum legal depth, risking an accident and leaving you open to a fine and penalty points, so get them checked in a garage. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm with 3mm being more the norm. New tyres tend to be 8mm.

What about stopping distance in icy weather?

Stopping distance increases about 10fold in icy conditions over what it would be on a dry road. This makes it imperative that your brakes are in a healthy state and you leave much greater distance between you and the vehicle in front.

What should we do if we break down on a motorway or deserted road in winter?

Carry a winter survival kit, including a high-vis jacket and reflective warning triangles. Keep fuel topped up to cover delays and, on long journeys in particular, have your phone charged in case you need to call for assistance.

Do most insurers now give breakdown assist?

Not all motor insurance policies will cover you for breakdown assistance. It would generally come as standard on a fully comprehensive policy but may have to be added as an optional extra for an additional cost to third party and third-party fire and theft policies.

Any tips on how to reduce our insurance?

Don’t automatically renew every year – shop around or contact a broker

Try to build up a no-claims discount Include a named driver – this will often reduce the premium

Get only the cover you need but consider your needs very carefully because the cheapest quote may not be adequate for your needs

If you have safe and secure parking make this known to potential insurers.

Are car insurance costs coming down now claims are reduced?

The National Claims Information Database report… shows motor insurance premiums have fallen. With changes under the Government’s Action Plan for Insurance Reform and the Personal Injuries Guidelines introduced in 2021, we may see this trend continue.

I got a quote from my broker of €568 but went to three different brokers and ended up paying just €364. Should we shop around for brokers as well as insurers?

Some insurance brokers have specialised schemes and access to niche insurers which focus on certain groups… Ask your broker about their range of choice of providers and whether they have any speciality schemes applicable to you.

Your best and worst investments?

My first house in 1996 – for the cost of a deposit now. A pension is a close second-best investment. Wrong choices not wrong investments come to mind.

What did your parents teach you about money?

Master your money and have an emergency fund (three-six months’ salary).