Top Tips for Safer Driving
1. Plan Your Journey
Before setting off, plan your route and make sure your vehicle is equipped for winter conditions. Keep essential items in your vehicle, including a torch, blanket, ice scraper, small shovel, suitable footwear, warm clothing, de-icer and winter-grade screen wash.
It’s also a good idea to carry some food and drinks, including a flask of a hot drink, in case of unexpected delays. Let friends or family know where you’re travelling, the route you intend to take and your expected arrival time.
2. Defrosting Your Vehicle
Never use warm or hot water to remove ice from your windows, as the sudden change in temperature could cause the glass to crack. Before setting off, make sure all windows, lights and mirrors are completely clear of ice and frost to ensure good visibility.
Driving with only a small, cleared section of your windscreen is dangerous and illegal. Never leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running while defrosting, as this could make it a target for opportunist thieves.
Remember to clear any snow from the bonnet, boot and roof of your vehicle to prevent it from falling off and creating a hazard for yourself or other road users.
3. Before You Set Off
Before starting your journey, check that your vehicle has sufficient fuel or that your electric vehicle has enough charge to reach your destination. Remember that winter weather can cause unexpected delays or leave you stranded, so it’s always best to be prepared.
Make sure you take a fully charged mobile phone with you and carry a working charger so you can stay connected in case of an emergency.