Icy and snowy roads during the Christmas holidays can cause unpredictable and dangerous driving conditions which can take the pleasure out of any journey. To make your journey as safe as possible, you must follow some guidelines. The foremost thing is to watch your speed and stay a safe distance from other vehicles, remembering that speed limits are set for ideal driving conditions so slowing down in bad weather is a must.
Then, make sure your car is free from ice and snow as they can build up on windows, restricting your view and becoming a potential hazard to yourself and other motorists. It pays to keep some defrosting spay, a scraper and some old cloths in your vehicle just in case you need to remove any fresh snow or ice on the journey.
Checking your tyre tread and pressure is also vitally important if you’re going to be driving on icy roads. Ideally you should check the pressure once a week – changing temperatures can lower your tyre pressure dramatically, so keeping it at the correct level should make your vehicle sturdier. You should also test you lights and make sure you have enough fuel for the trip.
It’s advisable to check the weather forecast if you’re heading out on a long journey. Stock youself up on some supplies before you set off since cars are more likely to break down during winter travel. Pack some warm clothes, a blanket, and a flask with a hot drink to help you stay warm if you’re stranded and remember to charge your mobile phone if you’re heading off the beaten track so that you can contact the emergency services.
Surely, you should check all your driving documents and insurance is up to date and if you’re journey is an important one make sure your car insurance quotes include a courtesy car should your vehicle fall foul of the cold climate.