Did you know that weather conditions are a contributing factor in 14% of all serious injuries on UK roads, according to National Highways data? 

Additionally, insurer Direct Line Group found that an astonishing 15% of drivers don’t adjust their speed in heavy rain or snow – and 31% don’t slow down for wet surfacing. 

As winter comes around, low light and inclement weather can make our roads a hazardous place for drivers .

However, by taking the right precautions this winter, you can help to reduce the risk to both yourself, and other road users. In this article, we discuss some of the ways you can keep safe on the roads throughout the colder months. 

Make sure your vehicle is ready for Winter

Taking the right steps to prepare your vehicle for winter is key to reducing the risk of breakdowns or collisions, and ensuring it can perform as expected in the colder months.

How to prepare your car for winter 

Here are some of the key checks you should conduct in the winter months: 

• Lights and signals – check all your lights and signals to ensure they’re working properly and helping to increase visibility, both for yourself and other road users.

• Tyre pressure and tread – ensure tyre pressure and tread depth is checked regularly to ensure adequate grip, particularly important for heavier vehicles.

• Batteries – ensure your vehicles’ batteries are in good condition for the colder months, as getting the engine started can be more charge-intensive in winter.

• Wipers and screenwash – make sure screen wash is topped up to account for the extra salt spray, and that you’ve added an anti-freezing agent to your wash bottle.

• Vehicle electrics and heating system – ensure all electrics are functioning properly in the colder conditions, particularly heating, accessories, and onboard equipment.

Ensure you have the right kit on board

Make sure you have the right equipment in your car to ensure uninterrupted travel, and help you stay safe in the event of a breakdown or incident.

Essential equipment to have in your vehicle this winter: 

• Ice scraper & de-icer – Essential but easily forgotten tools for getting your vehicle moving on cold winter mornings, and a valuable back-up if hearing systems should fail.

• Snow shovel – Snow can fall quickly and unpredictably, and a small shovel is always handy to have onboard should the vehicle become stuck.

• Spare wiper blades and bulbs – Wipers and bulbs can wear out much quicker in winter, so it’s always handy for you to have spares in the vehicle in case they’re needed. 

• Rock salt – While most busy roads are gritted in winter, a spare bag of salt can be incredibly useful if you get stuck, or need to navigate a snow-covered road.

• In-car phone charger – Vital for keeping you connected should there be any delays, or need to contact response services during your journey.

• Jump leads – Batteries can degrade more quickly in winter. A pair of jump-leads is always helpful to have as a backup to get the vehicle started if the battery should fail. 

• Warm clothing and blankets – Ensuring you are comfortable in the cold weather, particularly if you are held up or required to stop at the roadside. 

• Low-tint sunglasses – A great way to counter glare from wet roads, and bright headlights, without impeding visibility in lower light.

• Water & non perishable food – Essential provisions in the event of an incident or unexpected hold-up in the journey, and to counter the effects of cold temperatures on the body. 

Tips for safe driving in winter 

1. Be prepared for changes in weather 

Listen to the weather forecast before you travel. If ice and snow are forecast, travel on main roads as much as possible as these are more likely to have been salted. 

2. Allow extra time to travel 

Take time before you drive to remove ice and snow from your vehicle and allow windows to clear. 

Remember, you may need to slow down in poor weather conditions, so your journey could take a little longer than usual. 

3. Give other drivers plenty of space 

In wet, icy or windy conditions, make sure you leave even more space than usual between you and the vehicle in front. If heavy rain makes your steering feel light, ease off the accelerator to slow down. 

4. Make sure you’re visible 

If visibility is reduced, use your lights and beacons to make sure you can be seen by other road users. When driving in fog, fog lights are better than full beam as the fog will reflect bright lights back at you. 

In summary 

Driving in winter can be hazardous but there are a few things you can do to reduce the risks: 

• Make sure your vehicle is winter-ready by checking lights, tyres, wipers and electrics. 

• Carry winter essentials, including ice scraper, snow shovel, warm clothes and blanket, in-car phone charger, snacks and water. 

• Check the weather forecast before you travel and leave extra time for your journey in poor weather. 

• Stay alert to road conditions and leave extra space between you and the driver in front. 

• Use lights to improve visibility and ensure you can be seen by other road users. 

For more great tips to reduce risks when driving, visit Driving for Better Business.