Tips for Driving in the Snow

With snow sweeping across much of the UK today, here’s some tips to ensure that you stay safe while driving on snowy roads.

Take your time

The first rule of driving on snowy roads is to take your time. It may sound obvious, but it is easy to continue at a similar pace to usual, especially if you know the roads. Start off by planning your route carefully, listening out for any weather alerts about particular roads. When you hit the road, slow down, and allow plenty of space between you and the car in front, as your stopping distance will be greatly increased in this type of adverse weather.

Clear snow from your car properly

Again, this may seem like common sense, but if you’re running late, it’s easy to set off without ensuring that your car is completely clear of snow. While you might have already cleared your windscreen, pay attention to the mirrors and the roof- snow can fall unexpectedly from the roof while you are driving and make it difficult to see.

Are your tyres safe?

Take a good look at your tyres before setting off in the snow. Ensure that you have sufficient tread to grip while driving on slippery roads. In adverse conditions you may want to consider switching your tyres to snow tyres.  

Stay warm!

Ensure that you have supplies in your car in case the weather takes a turn for the worse – or roads become impassable. The RAC provides a list of items which you may wish to pack for travelling in the snow. Items include warm clothes, a hot drink and something to eat, a torch, a warning triangle and a shovel.

Top up your screen wash

You’ll need plenty of screen wash due to spray and salt on the roads due to gritting. It can quickly become difficult to see if you don’t have enough screen wash.

Do you have any top tips for driving in the snow? Join the conversation on Twitter @winnsolicitors.

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