Mastering the Elements: Our Guide to Safe UK Winter Driving

The winter months can be perilous for UK drivers. Icy roads, poor visibility and cold temperatures make conditions more hazardous. By preparing your vehicle, adjusting your driving style and planning journeys carefully means you can drive more safely this winter.

Get Your Vehicle Ready

Ensuring your vehicle is ready for winter driving should be the first priority. Check all fluids including engine oil, coolant, washer fluid and brake fluid. Make sure they are topped up and filled with the proper winter or all-season preparations.

Test your battery and replace it if necessary, as cold weather reduces battery life. Inspect windscreen wipers and replace any wiper blades that show signs of wear and tear. Check tyre treads using the 20p test – insert a 20p coin into the main tread grooves and if the outer band is obscured, the tread is above the legal limit. For winter, consider fitting all-season tyres, as these provide superior grip.

Finally, stock your car with emergency supplies - prepare for the unexpected this winter.

• Shovel
• Torch
• Warm clothes
• Boots
• Blanket
• High visibility vest
• Ice scraper
• Jump leads
• Mobile phone charger/power bank

Adjust Your Driving

When behind the wheel in wintry conditions, drive slower and increase stopping distances. Leave at least two times more space than usual between you and the car in front. Gentle manoeuvres are essential – brake, accelerate and steer smoothly to avoid skidding on slippery surfaces. Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin.

When braking, pump the brakes to prevent the wheels locking up. If you do start to skid, ease off the brakes and steering and look and steer in the direction you want the car to go. Avoid sudden steering inputs which can make skids worse.

Watch out for black ice – a transparent sheet of ice that looks like a harmless wet road. Approach any damp or wet-looking surface with caution. Bridges and overpasses freeze over faster than roads. If conditions are extremely icy, consider postponing non-essential trips.

Take Extra Winter Precautions

Besides equipping your car and modifying your driving style, taking some additional precautions can keep winter journeys safe. 

Check all lights are working and clean the front and rear lights before setting off to ensure good visibility. Setting off with a smeary windscreen or frosted windows can be extremely dangerous, risking 3 points and a £60 fine. Always fully clear and de-ice your car before driving.

Plan your route ahead and allow extra time for winter journeys. Let others know your route and when you expect to arrive. Bring a fully charged mobile phone to call for help if required.

When parking, leave your car in gear or in park with the parking brake engaged. This prevents rolling on icy surfaces. Consider keeping a grab bag in your car with warm clothes, a high visibility vest, ice scraper and de-icer. This allows you to safely clear snow and ice from your vehicle in the event you break down.

Take Care on Winter Nights and in Snow

Driving at night in icy conditions requires additional caution. Ensure headlights are properly cleaned and aligned and used appropriately on high beam or dipped as required. Night vision can be impaired by snow or heavy rain so slower driving is advised. Use road markings and tail lights of other vehicles to guide you in poor visibility. Keep a safe distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you.

If snow falls when you are driving, keep both hands on the steering wheel and slow your speed. Avoid sudden acceleration, braking or steering which can cause you to lose control. Always keep vehicle ventilation systems clear of snow to avoid dangerous exhaust fume build-up.

Be Prepared to Delay or Cancel Trips

If severe ice or snow is forecast, consider postponing journeys until conditions improve. Listen carefully to traffic and weather reports. Local radio, official twitter feeds from transport authorities and motorway organisation like National Highways can provide very specific and up to date information on road conditions near you.

In dire conditions, police may advise against all but absolutely essential travel. Similarly, if your car breaks down and recovery services cannot reach you safely, wait with your vehicle until assistance arrives instead of attempting to walk for help. Don't risk an accident in sub-zero temperatures.

Driving defensively is always important on UK roads, but especially in the unpredictable winter months. By thoroughly preparing in advance, continuously monitoring conditions and adjusting your speed and style appropriately, you can enjoy safe winter journeys. Don't take risks this winter – always put safety first behind the wheel.