Winter Driving Tips

With the arrival of the first few cold, frosty mornings and even a snowy day it is fair to say that winter time is truly upon us now. With this in mind we have pulled together some winter driving tips and also some rules of the road which if broken could land you in trouble with the law (and we don’t want that do we).

Here are few rules from the Highway Code which could see you relieved of some of your hard earned bread and honey if you are caught.

• Leaving the engine running while stationary, or ‘engine idling’ to defrost windows is an offence under Rule 123 of The Highway Code and authorities have the power to issue £20 fixed penalties for any contravention.
• Rule 229 of the Highway Code says: “Before you set off you MUST be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows.” If the windscreen is obstructed in any way, the police can fine drivers £60.

Here are a few tips for driving in snow and ice.

• Make slow gentle manoeuvres to stay safe while driving in snow and ice, stopping distances can be 10 times longer.
• Apply brakes gently to avoid locking the wheels and loosing traction.
• Set off in second gear and slowly release the clutch to avoid wheel-spin
• Keep your speed constant and try to maintain momentum to avoid having to change gear or accelerate rapidly.
• If you get stuck in snow, straighten the steering and clear the snow from the wheels. Do not keep spinning the wheels, this will just make things worse. Try wiggling the steering wheel as you bring the power in or put a sack or old rug in front of the driving wheels to give the tyres some grip.
• Wear comfortable and dry footwear while driving.