Driving expert shares three key checks to avoid accidents on the road this winter
The arrival of winter brings with it treacherous driving conditions, so it is imperative to be that extra bit vigilant on the roads to prevent road traffic incidents. The combination of freezing temperatures, diminished visibility, and slippery surfaces can lead to loss of vehicle control and subsequent accidents.
Driving instructor who runs Theory Test Practice Annie Winterburn calls for heightened caution during these chilly months and has provided us with her five 'top tips to ensure you remain safe on the roads this season' - and there are three key checks you need to make before setting off at all.
Annie spoke to us about the importance of demisting your windows before setting off. "Don't start driving if your windows are misted up. You can't see properly. And don't keep on driving if your windows mist up while you're driving along," she told us.
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The driving expert also urges people to find out how to use their de-misters before even setting off, so you know what to do if they start to fog up. Another important check is the fuel tank - because you don't want to run out of fuel in the winter.
Annie explained: "Running out of fuel at any time is inconvenient but running out of fuel in the winter is so much worse. Don't let your fuel tank get too low. You could aim to keep it half topped up at all times."
Some experts suggest running out of petrol during the winter can cause condensation to form on the walls of the tank, causing water to drop and sit at the bottom of it. If temperatures drop, and that water freezes, the repairs could be costly.
Another check you should make before setting out on the road is your tyre condition. Annie said: "You need to have a good grip on the road so having tyres in good condition is essential. By law, you should have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm but your grip on the road will start to reduce, when you get anything less than 3mm. Look for cuts and bulges in your tyres. Check your tread depth replace any tyres if necessary."
When it comes to driving, Annie says it's incredibly important to stay visible to other drivers - and it's something people often forget. She said: "So many people forget to put their lights on when it's dull or it's starting to go dark. this means that other road users can't see you as clearly, so they are more likely to pull out in front of you. Put your dipped headlights on when it's starting to go dark, it's dull or when it's raining during the daytime."
And while you're driving, it's important to make sure you're keeping a correct distance between you and the car in front. She explained: "Don't drive too close to the vehicle in front of you. If they have to brake suddenly you won't be able able to stop in time, and you'll likely go into the back of them if you are too close. If the roads are dry you should be two seconds away from the car in front of you. If it's wet, that's doubled to four and if it's icy, it's 10 times the gap, which is 20 seconds."
You can sign up to Theory Test Practice here.
